








proflkilliam^sseJI 







LIBRARY OF CONGRESS. 

Chap..rr:.:, Copyright No...:-__„ 



UNITED STATES OF AMERICA. 




y^-Z^^n/ ^^^C^^^ 




5^^^^^ 



-- 105 AUG -7 1899 
HUSSELL 



ON 



SCIENTIFIC HORSESHOEING 



LEVELING AND BALANCING THE ACTION 
AND GAIT OF HORSES 



REMEDYING AND CURING THE DIFFERENT 
DISEASES OF THE FOOT 



FOURTH EDITION REVISED AND ENLARGED 



^VITH 4r50 ILLUSTRATIONS 



BY 

PROF. WILLIAM RUSSELL 

Practical Horseshoer 



CINCINNATI 
THE ROBERT CLARKE COMPANY 

1899 

M 



39592 



Copyrighted, 1899 
By GEORGE B. RUSSELL 










cx^^ 







-f — 




"The United States nf America, by act of their Cnngre<;<;, have authorized The World's Cohimbian 
Commission, at the liiternatiunal Exhibition held in the City of Chicago, State of Illinois, in the_ year 
1893, to decree a medal for specific merit which is set forth below, over the name of an individual judge 
acting as an examiner, upon the finding of a board of International Judges, to William Ri'ssell, Cincin- 
nati, Ohio. Exhibit: Horseshoes and Horseshoers' Tools. Award: Horseshoes — for extent and com- 
prehensiveness of Exhibit of Hand-made Horseshoes, of special design, intended to remedy defects 
in horses' feet, both natural and as the results of improper shoeing, and also to increase the speed of 
trotting and driving horses. Horseshoers' Tools — for Great Merit especially in the Foot Adjuster, 
which is very effective and simple, and enables the operator to so adjust the shoe as to perfectly 
equalize its pressure to all parts of the foot." 





CiT^cinnafi • Sni)ui?ti-iaf • €rpoi?ition. 



THE FIRST PREMIUM 



AWARDED TO 



WILLIAM RUSSELL AND SONS 

For Best Display of Hand-made Horseshoes, 
Remedying Defects in Horses' Feet, 

For Improvement in Horseshoe Iron, 

A7id for Morbid Specimens of Horses' Feet, 

Showing Injuries sustained from Improper Shoeing, 

CHAS. F. WILSTACH, President, 
ABNER L. FRAZER, Secretary. 



At the Cincinnati Expositions have been awarded to Prof. Russell, as above, 
for the successive years of 1870, 1871, 1872, 1873, 1874, 1875, 1879, 1880, 
1881, and 1883. 



• • • Sirsf f'^rcmiun^^ • • • 

Have also been awarded to Prof. Russell's displays wherever exhibited, 
notablj' at the 

TEXAS STATE FAIRS AND DALLAS EXPOSITIONS, 

IN 1889 AND 1890, FOR 

Best System of Scientific Horseshoeing, 

Best Display of Hand-made Horseshoes, 

And Best Display of Morbid Anatomical Specimens. 




INTERNATIONAL EXHIBITION, 

PHILADELPHIA, 1S76. 

The United States Centennial Commission has examined the 
report of the Judges, and accepted the following reasons, and decreed 
an award in conformity therewith. 

Philadelphia, December 14, 1876. 

REPORT ON AWARDS. 

Product: HORSESHOES (Hand and Machine Made); also, HORSESHOE IRON. 
Name and Address of Exhibitor: WILLIAM RUSSELL, CINCINNATI, OHIO. 

TJie undersigned, having examined tJie product herein described, respectfully 
recommends the same to the United States Centennial Commission, for Award, for the 
following reasons, viz., 

A variety of shoes remedying defects in hoofs; also, patented rolled iron, for hand- 
shoe making. All highly meritorious. 

J. D. 1MB DEN, 

[Signature of the Judge.} 
Approval of Group Judges. 

DANIEL STEINMETZ, CHAS. STAPLES, JULIUS DIEFENBACH, 
G. L. REED, DAV. McHARDY, J. BAIN. 

A true copy of the record. 

FRANCIS A. WALKER, Chief of the Btireau of Awards. 

Given by authority of the United States Centennial Commission. 

A. T. GOSHORN, 

Director General. 

J. L. CAMPBELL, J. R. HAW LEY, 

Secretary. President. 




^enncs^e^ * C^ntcnniaf ♦ Cjpojsition. 



AT NASHVILLE, 1897. 



AWARDED TO 



WILLIAM RUSSELL, CINCINNATI, OHIO. 

The Highest and only Premium Given for 

The Best Exliihit of Hand-made Horseshoes 

And Horscshoers' Tools and Paraphernalia, 

Including a Most Complete Anatomical Museum 
Of tlie Horse's Feet and Legs, with Special Reference to the Diseases Causec 
From Unbalanced Feet and Improper Shoeing. 



INTRODUCTION TO THE FOURTH EDITION. 



Modern farriery has become one of the most progressive 
of the sciences. For many years the standard works of the 
English, French and German authors were reprinted and fol- 
lowed as if the subject had been exhausted by them. But this 
view has given place in America to the most rigid examination 
into the wants of the American trotting horse, the latest devel- 
opment of the high bred and swift trotting horse ; so that in- 
stead of American farriery being confined to the proper dressing 
of the foot and shoeing of the sound and the unsound horse, in- 
vestigation has been extended to the action or gait, and many 
invaluable shoeing devices have been invented by the ingenious 
American mind to regulate, as well as to control the action of 
the horse both at the walk and at full speed. This is so great 
a step in advance that European works are no longer regarded 
as the highest standard of authority, but the American treatises 
have largely taken their place both in Europe and America. 

The author has been impressed with this conviction for 
more than a decade. For forty years he has been a practical 
blacksmith, and has shod all grades of horses from the ponder- 
ous Norman to the fleet-footed thoroughbred race horse. His 
place of business has been headquarters for the treatment of 
every species of lameness and abnormal condition of the foot, 
as well as the smithy for perfecting the gait and developing the 
speed, by the introduction of such shoes as each individual 
horse under treatment demanded. 

Moreover, he has patiently studied the anatomy, pathology 
and mechanical action of the foot, limb and body, so that by 
this dual mastery of the theoretical and practical science of 



Xll INTRODUCTIO:»f TO THE FOURTH EDITION. 

modern farriery he might leave, as a monument, a life work 
that would prove both instructive and useful to the horse com- 
munity. When the third edition of the present treatise was 
published he believed that he would not issue still another re- 
vised edition ; but his constant study of the subject and his 
interviews with the leading trainers and shoers and horse own- 
ers of this country have evolved so many valuable inventions 
and so much improvement in the treatment of chronic disorders 
that another edition has become absolutely imperative. 

The author trusts that the fourth edition will meet all re- 
quirements of being the latest standard authority on modern 
farriery. , Prof. William Russell. 



PREFACE TO FOURTH EDITIOK 



Since the publication of the third edition of my treatise on 
Scientific Horseshoeing, so many additional cases have come to 
my attention of the results of neglect of the horse's foot, that I 
have concluded to embody them, with copious illustration, in a 
complete final work to embrace all the important matter con- 
tained in the first, second and third editions, as well as the ad- 
ditional contents comprised in the fourth edition. 

After a practical experience of over a half century at the 
forge and anvil, I trust that I have herein demonstrated my 
theory, by the most indubitable proofs, that the cause of most 
of the foot and leg diseases of the horse is to be attributed to 
the failure to properly balance the feet in shoeing. And I am 
upheld in my opinion by the best and most experienced trainers 
and horseshoers in the country. Readers of this, the fourth 
edition of Scientific Horseshoeing, therefore, will understand 
my theory ; upon this I believe that the horseshoeing craft can 
rely faithfully, and I thus confidently proclaim it, so that the 
inquiring reader, who necessarily must be either a practical 
horseshoer, trainer, owner, or interested in the horse, may un- 
derstand as he reads the reasons for the remedies and treatments 
for the disorders to the foot and leg herein described. 

Some diseases are recognizable at once and can be assigned 
to known causes ; others appear only after a shorter or longer 
course of treatment and experiment, while many do not respond 
to the most exhaustive diagnosis. In the present instance I 
believe a very comprehensive field has been covered, and that a 
study of this book and the cases cited will enable the farrier to 
prescribe the proper treatment from his own diagnosis of cases. 

(xiii) 



XIV PREFACE TO FOURTH EDITION. 

But it is not to diseases mainly this edition is devoted. The 
few remarks here relative to proper care of the feet are equalh' 
applicable to the sound horse, and make more emphatic the 
necessity for the care and preservation of the sound foot. 

It is my good fortune to number on my list of friends many 
of the most prominent horsemen and farriers in almost all parts 
of the country, and for the many courtesies received from them, 
at various times and places, my thanks are due. Particularly, 
it should be stated here, that I am indebted to Mr. S. T. Harris, 
of Cincinnati, the well-known authority on all subjects relating 
to the welfare of the horse, for his valuable assistance and sug- 
gestions opportunely given while I was pursuing the investiga- 
tion of the principles of this work, and continuing through an 
association of more than thirty-five years. Wm. Russell. 

No. 1722 Freeman avenue, Cincinnati, O. 



TABLE OF COjSTTENTS. XV 



TABLE OF CONTENTS. 



PAGE. 

Portrait of Author ii 

Diploma, Cincinnati Industrial Exposition v 

Medals and Report on Awards, Centennial Commission vii 

Medals and Awards, World's Columbian Exposition viii 

Tennessee Centennial Exposition x 

Introduction to Fourth Edition xi 

Preface to Fourth Edition xiii 

List of Illustrations xxi 

CHAPTER I. 
The Horse in General. 

Judging the Useful Qualities of Horses 25 

The Ideal Horse 26 

Light Horses 26 

Symmetrical Qualities 27 

Judging Action 28 

Structural Examination 29 

Muscular Development 29 

Front Limbs 30 

Feet and Legs 31 

The Trunk 31 

Hind Limbs 32 

CHAPTER II. 
Bones of the Horse. 

The Trunk 33 

The Limbs 33 

The Bones in Detail 34 

The Bones Enumerated 35 

The Skeleton Described 37 

CHAPTER III. 
The Foot and Locomotory Apparatus. 

The Subject Defined 38 

Motion in General 38 

The Limbs in General 39 

The Foot in General 39 

Bones at the Foot 40 



XVI TABLE OF CONTENTS. 

PAGE. 

The Pedal or Coffin-bone 40 

Bones and their Articulations 41 

Ligaments and Lubricants 41 

Muscles of the Foot and Leg ^ , 42 

Soft Tissues 43 

Sensitive Tissues 44 

Circulation of the Foot 45 

Nerve Supply 46 

Horny Tissues 46 

The Wall, the Sole, the Frog 47 

Development of the Hoof 48 

Importance of the Subject 49 

Colored Plates, with Anatomical Sections, described 50 

Queries and Answers, Outlining the Anatomy of the Foot 63 

CHAPTER IV. 

Practical Hokseshoeing — Science, Art and Common Sense. 

Prof. Kussell in His Study 67 

Necessity of Shoeing 68 

Past and Present 69 

Important to Horsemen 70 

Essential Knowledge 71 

Condensed Anatomy 72 

The Center of Gravity 73 

Emphasizing the Facts 74 

Variation of Feet 75 

The Angle of Incidence 75 

What Rule to go by 75 

How to get on in the Work 76 

Farriers' Tools 76 

Russell's Scientific Foot Adjuster 77 

The Adjuster Applied — for Leveling and Balancing the Foot 77 

Other Mechanical Aids 77 

Method of Procedure 78 

Diflferent Kinds of Feet 81 

The Natural Model 81 

Rational Shoeing 82 

Fundamental Principles 82 

Securing the Levels S3 

Maintaining the Balance 83 

Preparing the Foot for the Shoe 83 

" Opening up the Heels " 84 

Indefensible Practices 85 

Thinning out the Sole 85 

Trimming the Frog 85 

Weight of the Shoe 86 

Form of the Shoe 88 

Setting the Shoe ; . . . 88 



TABLE OF CONTENTS. Xvii 

PAGE. 

Hot and Cold Fitting 88 

Adaptation of tiie Shoe 90 

Fullering and Punching 91 

Concerning the Nails 91 

Driving the Nails 92 

The Finished Work 92 

Sizes and Uses of Nails 93 

CHAPTER \. 
Shoeing Young Horses — Action and Gait. 

Practical Ealance of Foot and Leg .103a 

A Cause of Unbalanced Feet , , . . . . 103/ 

Condition of Action 104 

Care Bestowed in Colthood lOfi 

First Trial of Shoes 10;> 

Modifications of Action 10(> 

Care of Horses' Mouths 107 

Handling Young Horses 108 

Determining the Gait lOD 

Regulating the Gait 110 

Balancing the Action 110 

The Useful Gait 112 

CHAPTER VI. 
Special and General Shoeing. 

Different Kinds of Feet 114 

The Running or Galloping Horse 115. 

The Trotting Horse 117 

Records of Champion Trotters from 1806 to 1894 118 

The Pacing Horse 121 

The Racking Horse 121 

The General Purpose Horse 122 

The Draft Horse 123 

Frog Pressure 127 

Proportions of the Hoof 128 

Resetting the Shoes 129 

Gait of Speed Horses 130 

CHAPTER VII. 
Lameness and Diseases of the Foot. 

Pathological Shoeing 131 

Causation of Diseases 132 

Locating the Lameness. ... 134 

Laminitis or Founder 136 

Primary or Passive Stage 137 

Acute Stage — Villitis 137 

Chronic or Violent Stage 138 

Complications of Laminitis — Dropped Sole 141 

Peditis, Periostitis, Suppuration 142 

Seedy Toe 143 



XVlll TABLE OF CONTEXTS. 

PAGE. 

Complications of Laminitis — Drojiped Sole 141 

Peditis, Periostitis, Suppuration 142 

Seedy Toe 143 

Dished Foot 146 

Side Bones (Ossified Cartilages) 147 

Parallel of Normal and Abnormal Leg Bones .....; 148 

Hot Fitting, Clips and Spurs 151 

Contraction = 154 

Toe Cracks 159 

Quarter Cracks « . • 161 

Corns • 163 

Navicular Disease 1 65 

Kaised or Twisted Coronet 168 

Another Example of Peditic Disorganization 170 

Dished-wheel Foot 170 

"Wheeled Foot 173 

Defective Ankle Joints or Knuckling 174 

Knee Sprung 176 

Curb 178 

Bone Spavin 180 

Bog Spavin 181 

Canker 181 

Foot Rot or Seedy Toe s 182 

Broken Bars 185 

Lameness and Diseases of the Foot 1 86 

Abnormal Feet 188 



CHAPTER yilL 
Faults of Structure and Action'. 

Regulated or Restricted by Shoeing 198 

Faulty Positions of the Limbs and Feet 200 

Care of the Foot from Colthood 204 

Splay Foot— Knee Hitting 205 

Forging or Clicking 208 

Speedy Cutting 211 

Ankle, Shin and Knee Cutting 212 

Sprains of the Tendons 213 

Elbow and Arm Cutting 214 

Adjustable Toe Weight ; 214 

More about Ankle, Shin and Knee Hitting 216 

Speed Shoes 217 

Shoes for Quarter Crack 221 

Rate of Speed of Trotters and Pacers 225 



TABLE OF CONTEXTS. XIX 

CHAPTER IX. 
Specific axd Remedial Shoeing. page. 

Its Purpose and Scope Deliiieated 227 

Centennial Shoe, No. 1 229 

Centennial Shoe, No. 2 230 

Centennial Shoe, No. 3 230 

Raised Spring Shoe 231 

Scooped Toe Rolling-Motion Shoe ' 232 

" Goldsmith Maid " Bar Shoe 233 

Shoe to Prevent Forging, etc 233 

Non-paddling Shoe 234 

Rolling Motion Shoe, No. 1 235 

Rolling Motion Shoe, No. 2 236 

Shoe to Prevent Stumbling 236 

Toe Weight Shoe 23S 

Improved Toe Weight Shoe 238 

Turn-Table Shoe 239 

Common-Sense Shoe 240 

Side Weight Shoe 242 

Rolling-Motion Shoe on Foot. 242 

Shoes for Draft Horses 243 

Shoe to Prevent Paddling, Cutting, etc 244 

Shoe for Bruised Heels, Corns, etc 244 

Shoe to Balance and Slow Action of Trotting Horges 245 

Shoe for Track and Road Horses 246 

Shoe for Ankle Hitting 246 

Shoe to Widen Action 247 

Side-AVeight Shoe to Equalize the Wearing 248 

Shoe to Prevent Ankle Cutting 248 

Shoe for Curb, Spavin and Sore Tendons 249 

Shoe to Prevent Bruising and Calking 250 

Shoe to Prevent Twisting 250 

Shoe for Wheeled Foot 251 

Scooped-Toe Rolling ISIotion Shoe 252 

Shoe for Line Trotters, to Prevent Scalping 252 

Bar Shoe, for Line Trotters 253 

Rasp-Cut Shoe to Prevent Slipping 253 

Rasp-Cut Shoe to Prevent Slipping 254 

Raised Split-Bar Shoe for Contraction, etc 254 

Scooped-Toe Grab Shoe 255 

Center Bearing Double Rolling-Motion Bar Shoe 255 

Scooped-Toe Grab Shoe for Speedy Cutting 256 

Scooped Grab-Toe Bar Shoe 256 

Three-quarter Shoe 257 

Shoes for Sprained Tendons (five views) 258 

Spreading Shoe (two views) 260 

Shoe to Prevent Dragging and Forging 261 

Shoe to Prevent Ankle Hitting 261 



XX. TABLE OF CONTENTS. 

PAGE. 

Use and Abuse of Tips 2G2 

Sharpening or Winter Shoeing 2G3 

All About Calks 2G-t 

Bracing or Crutch Shoes 204 

Knuckling Shoes 2G9 

Hitching, its Cause and Cure 274 

CHAPTER X. 
A Tableau of Horse Shoes and Tools. 

No. 1, Case and Description of Farriers' Tools 278 

No. 2, Case and Description of Shoes 280 "J Showing a progressive 

No. 3, Case and Description of Shoes 282 ( series of 170 different 

No. 4, Case and Description of Shoes . 284 C patterns of old and new- 
No. 5, Case and Description of Shoes 286 -' styles for all purposes. 

A Case of Fine Plorseshoes, Made by Prof. Wm. Russell 288 

Russell's Scientific Foot and Heel Adjusters 289 

Russell's Hand Vise for Hot Filing and Foot Testers 290 

CHAPTER XI. 
Useful Prescriptions. 

Cleansing the Feet 292 

Foot Salve, for Various Diseases, Wounds, etc 292 

Liniment for Inflammations . 294 

Caustic Wash for General Purposes , 294 

Witch Hazel Wash 295 



LIST OF ILLUSTKATIONS. XXI 



LIST OF ILLUSTRATIONS. 



1 . Model Light Horse 24 

2. Skeleton of the Horse 36 

o. Bones of the Foot 50 

4. Muscles, Tendons, Ligaments and Joints of Leg and Foot 51 

5. Median Section of Leg and Foot from Base to Knee 52 

6. Side of Foot with Hoof removed showing the Laminae 53 

7. Front of Foot with Hoof removed showing the Laminae 54 

8. Internal Structures of Left Fore Foot — outer side 55 

9. Internal Structures of Left Fore Foot — inner side 56 

10. Internal Structures of Left Fore Foot — front 57 

11. Internal Structures of Left Fore Foot — back 58 

12. Plantar Face of Coffin-bone and Insertion of Tendon 59 

13. Plantar Reticulum — with Veins, Nerves, etc 60 

14. Velvety Tissue or Sensitive Sole and Plantar Cushion 61 

15. Inside View of Perfect Hoof 62 

16. Bed Plate of Russell's Foot Adjuster 94 

17. Side View of Adjuster 94 

18. Front View of Adjuster 94 

19. Back View of Adjuster 95 

20. Russell's Leveling Plate 95 

21. Compass for Spanning the Hoof, etc 95 

22. Position of Foot for Examination 96. 

23. Sole or Lower Face of Perfect Foot Leveled, etc 97 

24. Upper Face of Perfect Foot 98 

25. Side of Perfect Leg and Foot Leveled and Balanced 99 

26. Transverse Section of Foot and Leg 100 

27. Front Foot Shoe for General Purposes 101 

28. Side of Perfect Foot Properly Shod as directed 102 

29. Full Size Section of Perfect Hoof— showing Natural Proportions — with 

Shoe Properly Nailed in Position 103- 

30. Racing Plate for Running Horses lie^ 

31. English Seated Shoe for Saddle Horses 122 

32. Front Foot Shoe for Draft Horses 126 

33. Hind Foot Shoe for Draft Horses 126 

34. Median Section of a " Foundered " Foot 139 

35. Front Foot Shoe for Dropped Flat or Weak-Soled Feet 140 

36. Side of Hoof with Shoe Sprung off the Heel ^141 

37. Bottom View of same Hoof 141 

38. Coffin-bone Distorted by Laminitis and Peditis 142 

39. Specimen of Seedy Toe 143 



Xxii LIST OF ILLUSTEATIONS. 

PAGK; 

40. Another Example of Seedy Toe 144 

41. The Same Hoof Straightened on One Side 145 

42. Dished Foot and Dropped Sole 146 

43. Side Bone or Ossified Cartilage 147 

44. Hoof from which Fig. 43 was taken 147 

45. Normal Position of Foot and Leg Bones 148 

46. Abnormal Position of same 148 

47. Outside Appearance of Side Bones 150 

48. Hoof of Draft Horse with Spur Inside 151 

49. Bottom of same Hoof showing Contraction, etc 152 

50. Median Section of Hoof showing Spurs, etc 152 

51. Upper Face of Coffin-bone worn by Spur, etc 153 

52. Contracted Hoof 155 

53. Lower Face of Same Hoof 155 

64. Median Section of Foot showing Efl"ects of Contraction 156 

55. Mule's Hoof Overgrown and Contracted 158 

56. Mule Shoe 158 

57. Toe Crack in Hoof Properly Dressed 159 

58. Quarter Crack in Hoof Properly Dressed and Shod 161 

59. Bottom of Hoof Properly Shod for Quarter Crack 162 

60. Inside of Hoof showing Toe Corns 164 

61. Navicular Disease as Indicated by the Hoof 166 

62. Navicular Bone Diseased (one half size) '. 166 

63. Bar Shoe for Navicular Disease 167 

64. Raised Coronet as seen from Back of Hoof 169 

65. Peditis, or Chronic Laminitis shown by Abnormal Hoof 170 

66. Median Section of same Hoof showing Structural Changes 171 

67. Back View of Hoof showing Dished Quarter and Curled Heel 172 

68. Side View of Another Dished Foot 173 

69. Side View of Wheeled Foot 174 

70. Knuckling or Defective Ankle Joint 174 

71. Shoe to Prevent and Cure Knuckling 175 

72. Position of Leg when Knee Sprung 176 

73. Hind Leg, Showing Curb 179 

74. Same, Bandaged and Shod • 179 

75. Hoof with Seedy Toe, Shod 184 

76. Section of Ploof AfTected with Seedy Toe 184 

77. Disease of Coronet 186 

78. Healthy Foot Covered by Swab 1 S7 

79. Felt Swab 188 

80. Perfect Front Foot 188 

81. Coffin Bone — Lateral View of Correct Position 189 

82. High Toe 190 

83. Coffin Bone in Case of High Toe 190 

84. High Heels 191 

85. Coffin Bone in Case of High Heels 191 

86. Coffin Bone— Vertical 192 

87. Coffin Bone— out of Vertical 192 



LIST OF ILLUSTRATIONS. XXlll 

PAGE. 

88. Perfect Front Limb and Foot 193 

89. Front Limb and Toe — Pointing 193 

90. Result of Higli Heel 194 

91. Foot Properly Pared 195 

92. Foot after Being Bandaged and Shod 196 

93. Soaking Tub 197 

94. Faulty Positions of Hind Legs (side view) 200 

95. Faulty Positions of Hind Legs (back view) 201 

96. Correct Positions of Hind Legs (side view) 202 

97. Faulty Positions of Fore Legs (front view) 202 

98. Faulty Positions of Fore Legs (front view) 203 

99. Correct Positions of Fore Legs (front and side) 203 

100. Shoe for Splay Foot and Chronic Knee Hitters 208 

101. Shoe for the Relief of Sore Tendons, etc 213 

102. Adjustable Toe Weight (side view) 215 

103. Adjustable Toe Weight (ground tread) 215 

104. Front Foot Shoe, for Ankle or Shin Hitting 216 

105. Hind Foot Shoe, for ankle or Shin Hitting 216 

106. Bar Shoe for Wide Movement 217 

107. Record Breaker Front Shoe 218 

108. Record Breaker Hind Shoe 218 

109. Record Breaker— Grab Shoe 219 

110. Improved Grab Shoe 220 

111. Shoe for Quarter Crack Set on Well-balanced Foot 221 

112-113. Variations of same 222 

114. Quarter Crack Shoe Set on Foot 223 

115. Side View of Foot Shod for Quarter Crack 224 

116. Shoe for Quarter Crack 225 

117. Centennial Shoe, No. 1 229 

118. Centennial Shoe, No. 2 230 

119. Centennial Shoe, No. 3 231 

120. Raised Spring Bar Shoe 231 

121. Scooped-Toe Rolling-Motion Shoe 232 

122. " Goldsmith Maid " Bar Shoe 233 

123. Shoe to Lessen Knee Action, Prevent Forging, etc 233 

124. Non-Paddling Shoe 234 

125. Rolling-Motion Shoe, No. 1, for Knee Sprung, Sore Tendons, etc 235 

126. Rolling-Motion Shoe, No. 2 236 

127. Front Foot Shoe to Prevent Stumbling, etc 236 

128. Front Foot Toe-Weight Shoe to Balance Action 238 

129. Improved Toe-Weight Shoe 238 

130. Front Foot Turn-Table Shoe, for Various Diseases 239 

131. Double Roller Shoe 240 

132. Common-Sense Four-Calk Shoe, for Faulty jMovements 241 

133. Front Foot Side-Weight Shoe, for Ankle or Knee Hitting 242 

134. Side of Foot with Roller Motion Shoe 242 

135. Front Foot Shoe for Draft Horse 243 

136. Front Foot Shoe for Draft Horse 243 



XXIV LIST OF ILLUSTRATIONS. 

PAGE. 

137. Non-paddling Shoe, Ankle and Shin Cutting 244 

138. Shoe for Bruised and Ulcered Heels, Corns, etc 244 

139. Shoe to Balance and Slow Action of Trotters 245 

140. Shoe for Track and Road Horses 246 

141. Shoe for Extreme Cases of Ankle and Knee Hitting 246 

142. Shoe to Widen the Action Behind 247 

143. Hind Foot Side-Weight Shoe 248 

144. Hind Foot Shoe for Ankle Cutting 248 

145. Shoe for Curb, Spavin and Sore Tendons 249 

146. Slioe to Prevent Bruising or Calking the Coronet 250 

147. Slioe with Calkins to Prevent Twisting 250 

148. Shoe for Wheeled Foot 251 

149. Scooped-Toe Rolling TNIotion Shoe 252 

150. Shoe for Line Trotters to Prevent Scalping 252 

151. Bar Shoe for Line Trotters 253 

152. Rasp-Cut Bar Shoe to Prevent Slipping 253 

153. Rasp-Cut Scooped-Toe Grab Shoe 254 

154. Raised Split-Bar Shoe for Contraction, etc 254 

155. Scoop-Toe Grab Shoe 255 

156. Center-Bearing Double Rolling-Motion Bar Shoe 255 

157. Scooped-Toe Grab Shoe to Prevent Speedy Cutting 256 

158. Scooped Grab-Toe Bar Shoe to Prevent Slipping 256 

159. Three-quarter Spring Tongue Shoe for Sand Cracks, etc ... 257 

160. Shoe on Hoof for Sprained Tendons, Wounds, etc 258 

161. Modified Form of Same Shoe 258 

162. Ground Surface of Shoe, Fig. 160 259 

163. Ground Surface of Shoe, Fig. 161 259 

164. Foot Bearing Surface of Shoe, Figs. 161 and 163 259 

165. Ground Surface of Spreading Shoe 260 

166. Foot Bearing Surface of Same Shoe 260 

167. Shoe to Prevent Dragging and Forging 261 

168. Shoe to Prevent Ankle Hitting 261 

169. Right Front Bracing Shoe 264 

170. Left Front Bracing Shoe 265 

171. Split Bar Shoe 265 

172. Broad Bar Beveled Shoe 266 

173. Left Hind Shoe 266 

174. Shoe to Correct Cutting Inside Point of Toe 267 

175. Shoe to Prevent Ankle Hitting 268 

176. Same 268 

177. Illustration of Knuckling 269 

178-179. Shoe to Prevent Knuckling 270 

180-181. Shoes for Inner and Outer Contraction 271 

182-183. Anti-dragging Shoe Set on Foot 272 

184. Half Bar Shoe for Coutraction of Outside Heels and Quarters 273 

186. Case No. 1. Improved Tools for Scientific Horseshoeing 278 

187. Case No. 2. Description of Shoes 280 

188. Case No. 3. Description of Shoes 282 



LIST OF ILLUSTRATIONS. XXV 

PAGE. 

189. Case No. 4. Description of Shoes 284 

190. Case No. 5. Description of Shoes 286 

191. A Case of Fine Horseshoes, bj^ Prof. Wm. Russell 2S8 

192. Enssell's Foot Adjuster 2S9 

193. Russell's Heel Adjuster 289 

194. Russell's Foot Testers 290 

195. Russell's Hand Vise for Hot Rasping Shoes 290 



SCIENTIFIC HORSESHOEING. 



CHAPTER I. 
THE HORSE IN GENERAL. 

JUDGING THE USEFUL QUALITIES OF LIGHT HORSES. 

At the present day, when the horse is so universally em- 
ployed, and when, as a rule, each description of work is per- 
formed by an animal having qualities especially adapted for it, 
most men claim to be familiar with the general characteristics 
that distinguish or mark the several types of horses, but few are 
really qualified to make an accurate discrimination between 
them, or have the ability to recognize or to judge knowingly of 
the " points " of a horse when it confronts them. This demands 
a close study of the useful qualities of a horse in all his spheres 
of labor, as well as a close knowledge of his vices, defects, and 
relative soundness in all parts, and implies the possession of ripe 
experience, extensive observation, and intimate acquaintance 
with the ideals that guide breeders in the countless shiftings of 
their work to suit the varying dictates of utility and fashion. 
These attainments are rare and difficult possessions. Previous, 
therefore, to making a critical examination of the organs and 
functions of locomotion, in their relation to shoeing, which is in- 
tended to be the main theme of this book, it is best to take a 
preliminary view of the horse at large, that will, by a natural 
and easy process, lead to a discussion of the details of the 
subject. 

(25) 



26 SCIENTIFIC HOESESHOEING. 

Ideal Horse. — The ideal type of horse is the blending to- 
gether of a great many, and this may account for the divergence 
of opinion respecting it, for it is only ideal in the minds of 
some ; each see in part and contribute their observation, and the 
ideal type becomes evolved; and it is in knowing this type that 
the skill of the judge is displayed. 

Light Horses. — It is by patient labor that great works are 
accomplished, and this applies with much force and truth to the 
American method of breeding and training young horses to-day. 
The trotting horse is distinctively America's national horse and 
par excellence the light roadster of the world, and has been 
evolved from the thoroughbred and draft horse in a period of 
less than one hundred years, until now he stands the product of 
the highest and most perfect development of grace, speed, and 
nervous animal force. The light horses of America may be said 
to be included mostly under three heads — the roadster, carriage, 
and cob ; and basing this division on the sphere in which each 
of the types act, we find the trotter the pure bred prototype of 
the roadster, the coach breeds of Europe bearing the same rela- 
tion to the carriage horse of every-day occupation, and the hack- 
ney the progenitor of the cob. 

The qualities that have the highest value in the roadster are 
speed, stamina, and style; speed at the trotting gait, and the 
talent of making a pleasing display. Such a horse must have 
a free and easy way of going, with a spirited and graceful move- 
ment. The typical roadster has a well-balanced stride and a 
high-headed straight movement that wastes no eftbrt or time. 
He is not a light horse, nor a heavy one, but has the deep chest, 
round barrel and long-drawn quarters, chiseled limbs, tense mus- 
cles, dense clean bone, lean tendons, and refined appearance ob- 
servable among the best turf campaigners. 

The prominent peculiarities of the carriage horse may be 
grouped as style, size, and substance. The sphere of the car- 



THE HORSE IX GENERAL 27 

riage horse is dift'erent from the roadster, and the type is tall, 
with a muscular, large-boned, up and outstanding attitude, 
having the appearance of style and a comparatively slow 
movement. 

The cob is the counterpart of the hackney in the common 
current of horse life, distinguished by the series of beautiful 
curves that define the outline. The rotundity of the rib and the 
plump muscular quarters and arched molding of the neck are 
influential features in producing the appearance. In movement, 
the spirit, dash, and striking muscular action of the knees and 
hocks impress the beholder with the style it displays and the 
appearance of graceful effort without corresponding speed. 

These different types embrace also what might be said here 
in description of the different forms, and include in a general 
way the three points of size, symmetry, and substance. 

The carriage horse should be sixteen hands, the cob fifteen 
hands two inches, and the roadster has no recognized limits. It 
is hard to say to what degree size adds to a horse's value. 
Speed does not seem to be always an associate of size, but as the 
market runs it would be advisable to give it some consideration 
in the roadster classes. 

Symmetrical Qualities, — The proportions of a horse for 
symmetry should be such as to make a well-balanced whole. 
The trotter has a proportion of parts peculiarly its own, and 
likewise the other types, and any deviation from these should 
be considered. The substance of a horse is not solely related to 
weight. It is a consideration bearing on power and endurance ; 
the density of bone, curve of muscle, and development of the 
vital organs are the chief concern, and durability as connected 
with these qualities is of prime importance to all horses. Tiie 
term, good or high quality, as applied to horses, is understood 
to refer to clean-cut features, glove-like skin, silky hair, and 
firm, clean bone and tendons; these are evidences of good 



28 SCIENTIFIC HORSESHOEING. 

healthy organization and valuable indications of power under 
hard strains of usage. 

Judging Action. — To form a correct idea of the action of 
a horse, it is necessary to observe it from the front, at the sides, 
and behind. As he squares away from you, the width and 
straightness of the movement may be noticed. An outward 
swing to the hind limbs, as well as a dishing in of the front 
action, is to be discountenanced. As the horse comes toward 
you, the smoothness of action is made apparent. A wide chest 
is usually connected with a rolling motion that gives a horse an 
awkward method of moving. From a side view, it is easy tO' 
observe if the action is balanced, and the knee action can be 
noted. A stiif knee action may indicate speed when it is rapid 
and ghding, but it is hard on the fore legs. The front action 
should be such as to give the limbs the appearance of unfolding 
gradually and steadily reaching out to cover as much ground as- 
possible. Many horses have an easy, pleasant knee action, but 
the fault lies in the slowness of recovery. In the action of the 
hind limbs, the style and hock movement should be observed.. 
Horses that are long-backed or weak-loined have a dwelling 
action behind that is unpleasing and detracts from their speed. 
If there is any thing the matter with the joints of a horse, it is- 
quickly disclosed by the irregularity of their action. Most in- 
firmities have a distinct influence on the regularity of the move- 
ment. The walk is also of great importance in considering the 
action. The horse should carry his head well up and his step 
should be lightly measured and deliberate, his feet being lifted 
clear of the ground and placed down evenly. The hind and 
fore limbs should work in unison, with an elastic, nervy move- 
ment that lifts some of the soil with every step. The flexion of 
the hocks should be free and straight, throwing the hind feet 
well under the body. 



THE HORSE IN GENERAL, 29 

Structural Examination. — The chief aim of a critical 
structural examination is to discover blemishes and any un- 
soundness of " wind or limb." 

It is of equal importance to recognize the conformation 
that gives rise to these diseases. The conformation favorable to 
the various diseases should be as familiar to the horse critic as 
the appearance of the diseases. The structural examination 
should begin at the head and extend over all regions systemat- 
ically, so that no parts may be overlooked. The shape of the 
head and the expression of the countenance add to the beauty 
and tell much of the mind and disposition of a horse. When 
the line from the poll to the point of the nose is almost 
straight, it contributes greatly to the beauty of a horse's head. 
The nostrils should be widely expanded, as indicating well-devel- 
oped respiratory organs. The features of the face should be dis- 
tinct, the muzzle fine, with breadth enough between the eyes to 
give a pleasing, docile, sensible appearance, and to mark the in- 
dication of brain development. A large, bright, clear, full eye 
reflects a kind, courageous disposition, with plenty of staying 
power or stamina at the bottom. Active and slightly pointed 
ears are indicative of unimpaired hearing and an energetic dis- 
position. A lithe, distinctly-lined neck is one of the most 
pleasing and taking features of a handsome horse. It begins 
with a light throttle and swells smoothly into the shoulders. 
The wind-pipe stands out large and distinct below, while above, 
the crest gives a fuller curve and more muscular development to 
the part. The chest should be deep rather than broad, as giving 
equal capacity while permitting the free play of the shoulder- 
blade on the body. The floor of the chest should be low be- 
tween the fore legs, and of good length from the point of the 
chest to that of the elbow. 

Muscular Development. — The formation of the shoulders 
has much to do with the elasticity and quickness of the front 



30 SCIENTIFIC HORSESHOEING. 

action. The length and obliquity of the shoulder-bhides are the- 
influential features. A long shoulder-blade implies long mus- 
cles, and these possess the greatest elasticity. Short and heavy 
muscles are productive of power at the expense of speed. Up- 
right shoulders result in a short, stilted front action, while slop- 
ing shoulders give the leg a far-reaching motion. Horses of 
this conformation carry their heads well and legs well under the 
body, that adds much to their appearance. 

Front Limbs. — As a whole, the front legs should be rather 
flat and cordy, due to properly attached tendons. In their pro- 
portions, the limbs should be long from the elbow to the knee 
and relatively short from thence to the ground. It is the upper 
part that is muscular, the lower portion being controlled by ten- 
dons, and it is desirable to have these muscles long and the dis- 
tance over which the tendons move short, that there may be no 
waste of energy and a better control over the lower extremities. 

Breadth and depth are very desirable in the knee, that con- 
cussion may be better distributed and carried off. The pisi- 
form-bone should be sharp and prominent, for to it is attached 
one of the important muscles of the fore limb. The cannon 
should be short, flat, and clean of any thickness of tendon or 
bone disease. A pastern of the proper proportions not only 
adds to the gracefulness and elasticity of the action, but to its- 
reach as well. A slope of forty-five to fifty degrees seems to be 
about right to give the required degree of strength and supple- 
ness. When the pastern is too long, weakness follows ; but 
"When right in length and slope, there is a combination of 
strength, elasticity, and gracefulness beautiful to observe. 

"When the foot leaves the ground the pastern is bent back, 
but when it again touches the ground, it is extended fully and 
brings the foot down on its heels. There is no other part of 
the mechanism of a horse that does more work and does it with 
less friction than a sound and perfectly proportioned pastern. 



THE HORSE IN GENERAL. 31 

Feet and Legs. — It is unnecessary for me to say that the 
feet should receive the most rigorous and careful criticism. The 
old maxim, " no foot, no horse," is to all intents and purposes 
more applicable to-day than when it was first expressed. 

The perfect foot is of firm texture, fair size, and, of course, 
thoroughly sound in all its parts. The general healthiness of 
it is denoted by the natural waxy appearance of the horny 
fibers, the well-formed, cup-like sole, and the marks of natural 
usage of the spongy frog as a bufier. 

Flatness of sole, dessicated or brittle walls, and contracted 
heels owing to mutilation of the frog, are defections commonly 
met with, not to say any thing of the abnormal variations that 
occur in the direction of the axis of the foot. A skillful judge 
may well spend one-half of his allotted time on the feet of the 
horses undergoing examination, to detect or give tokens of 
recognition to any defects of the wall, to see that the horn is 
dense and free from cracks ; the sole, to observe the absence of 
any disease and the presence of the natural concavity and con- 
nections ; the heel to see that the feet are medium size and of 
proper shape, the frog large and wide, and the bars strong 
and high. 

The Trunk. — Passing onward the ribs claim attention. 
Round ribs that spring out from the spine may give the horse 
the appearance of being too long in the legs, but they are 
nevertheless good in point of giving the greatest amount of 
space to the vital organs. Close coupling to the hip is strength, 
and so is a broad loin thick with layers of muscles. Consider- 
ing the proportions of the body, it is evident that the shorter it 
is above and the longer it is beneath, the better for the action. 
This formation gives rise to the approving term that "he stands 
over a deal of ground," and is associated with sloping shoulders. 
In such a conformation the legs have free play, and there is no 
loss of strength. 



32 SCIEXTIFIC HORSESHOEING. 

Hind Limbs, — The hind quarters should be scrutinized as 
to muscular development. From the construction of the hind 
quarters, it is observable that most of the propelling power 
comes from this source, and though the fore hand contributes 
in a degree, yet it chiefly supports the weight and carries the 
body ; in fact, we may almost compare the hind and fore legs 
of the horse to the drivers and forward trucks of a locomotive. 
The shoulder-blade of the fore leg, attached only by muscles, 
plays upon the body loosely, while the hind limb is connected 
to it by a powerful ball- and socket-joint. The muscular de 
velopment of the hind legs should be such as to cover any 
ranginess of the hips, which should also be wide and level. The 
croup from hip to tail requires length, width, and muscle to give 
it proportion and service. Long and muscular thighs, well 
spread and open-angled, provide for a long, quick stride. The 
quarters require an abundance of muscle extending well down 
on the legs. Below this the gaskin, or lower thigh, should be 
long so as to let the hock well down, and it should also be mus- 
cular and wide. For the hock to do its work to the best ad- 
vantage and remain free from disease, it is necessary for it to be 
straight, broad in front, sharp behind, and free from any gum- 
miness. Experience, knowledge and observation are essentials 
to the accurate judgment of these various points, as I have al- 
ready indicated. And much more might be written on the sub- 
ject, but the foundation of facts which I have thus far prepared 
will be found sufficiently broad, I trust, to include whatever may 
be necessary to insure a ready comprehension of the essential 
matters involved in judging light horses as most commonly pur- 
sued, the primary object being to show that scrupulous care 
must be constantly employed in the selection to secure a good 
representative of the equine kind. 



BONES OF THE HOESE. 33 



CHAPTER II. 
BONES OF THE HORSE. 

THE SKELETON. 

Ill the animal body, the bones form an internal framework, 
consolidating the whole structure and giving it general form 
and dimensions. In their connection and natural assemblage 
they constitute the skeleton, and before undertaking a particular 
description of the foot, it is advantageous that a summary indi- 
cation of the general principles of the skeleton of a horse 
should be known, in order to better understand the details of 
the special parts with which we are afterward to have most to 
do. The skeleton is divided into the trunk and limbs. The 
trunk consists of the spine, a series of distinct bones, jointed 
one to another in the middle upper part of the trunk of which 
it is the essential portion, forming a flexible support to the en- 
tire body from the head to the tail; and the ribs attached to the 
spine above and the sternum below, inclosing the thorax or 
chest and viscera. 

The Limbs. — The limbs, four in number, distinguished as 

the two anterior (or fore) and the two posterior (or hind), are 

the supports of the trunk, and are each divided into several 

parts, resting one upon another. Each limb has four principal 

regions, those of the front limbs being the shoulder, resting 

against the front part of the chest; the arm, next below the 

shoulder ; the forearm, succeeding the arm ; and the foot, the 

end of the limb. Those of the hind limbs are the haunch or 

pelvis, connected with the hind part of the spine, and the thigh, 

leg, and foot. 

3 (33) 



34 SCIENTIFIC HORSESHOEING. 

Bones Detailed. — The various bones entering into the 
composition of the skeleton of an adult horse are apportioned 
to the regions of the trunk and limbs, as follows : 

The spine or vertebral column consists of bones more or 
less regular in their form, divided into five regions. 

The cervical, 7 vertebrse, serving as a base for the neck.— 
The dorsal, 18 vertebrae, to which the ribs connect. — The lumbar, 
6 vertebrffi, supporting the loins. — The sacral, 5 vertebrse, in age 
fusing into one bone — the sacrum. — The coccygeal, 16 vertebrse, 
decreasing in size to form the tail. 

The first cervical is called the atlas, being elevated above 
the others, and supports the head. The second cervical is the 
axis, being the center upon which the atlas turns. The four- 
teenth dorsal is the center to which all motions and weights 
are referred. 

The thorax consists of the eighteen ribs on each side, 
placed against the dorsal vertebrse as mentioned, and resting by 
their lower ends on the sternum, or breast-bone, 37 bones in all. 
The head is divided into two regions, the cranium and face. 
It is formed of 28 bones, which are distinct only in young colts, 
for when matured the majority of these bones are united and 
can not be separated. 

The shoulder has for its base a single bone on each side — 
the scapula or collar-bone — making 2 bones for double region. — 
The arm has also only one bone to each limb — the humerus — or 
2 for d*ouble region. — The forearm has 2 bones — the radius and 
ulna — 4 for double region. — The forefoot, from knee down, has 
16 bones, or 32 for double region — that is, the pisiform, cune- 
iform, lunar, scaphoid, unciform, magnum, and trapezoid bones 
form the carpus or knee, and the cannon-bone and two splints 
form the metacarpus, while the phalangeal or digital region is 
formed of the two sessamoids, upper and lower pastern-bones, 
navicular-bone, and coffin- or pedal-bone. 



BONES OF THE HORSE. 35 

The pelvis of the back limbs is formed by the union of the 
sacrum and the two ossa innominata or coxae, making for the 
double region 2 bones. — The thigh has for its base one bone — 
the femur — 2 for the double region. — The leg has for its base 3 
bones — the tibia, fibula, and patella — making 6 for the double 
region. — The hindfoot bears a great resemblance to the same 
region in front : 6 bones form the tarsus or hock — th-e astraga- 
lus, calcis, cuboid, scaphoid, great cuneiform, and small cunei- 
form — making 12 for the double region. — The bones of the 
metatarsus or shank are three in number — the cannon and two 
splints — making 6 for the double region. — The bones of the foot 
or digital reo-ion behind are the same in number and name as 
those described for this region before — two sesamoids-, two 
pasterns, navicular, and coffin- or pedal-bone — making 12 for 
the double region. 

There are four bones in each ear, and the tongue is made 
up in five sections. Summing up, therefore, we find the bones 
of the horse distributed in the manner indicated in the following 
table : 

Bones Enumerated. — Spine or vertebral column (entire 
length, but counting the sacral as one bone — the 

sacrum), ......... 48 

Thorax or chest, 37 

Head — cranium, face, ears, and tongue, .... 41 

Shoulders, forearm and foot — double regions, . . 40 

Pelvis, thigh, hindleg and foot — double regions, . . 40 

Teeth, .^ 40 



Total, 246 

Fig. 2 shows the skeleton of the horse with the bones in 
their totality and natural relation to each other enumerated and 
described. 



36 



SCIENTIFIC HORSESHOEING. 




BONES OF THE HORSE. 



37 



DESCRIPTION— ARTIFICIAL SKELETON OF THE HORSE. 



1. Cranium and upper jaw. 

2. Lower jaw. 

3. Cervical vertebrae— Jointed process of 
the neck. 

4-4. Dorsal vertebrae — Jointed process of 
the tack. 

5-5. Lumbar vertebrae— Jointed process of 
the loins. 

6-6. Sacrum. A consolidation of the five 
sacral vertehraj, articulated, or jointed in 
front with the last lumbar, or loin, vertebrae, 
and behind with the first coccygeal bone; 
and on the sides with the coxae, the bones 
which, with the sacrum, form the pelvis or 
haunch. 

7-7. Coccygeal vertebrae — Jointed process 
extending from sacrum backward. 

8. Sub-trochanterian crest. 

9-9. Sternal or true ribs. 

10-10. Cartilages of true ribs. 

11-11. Asternal, or false ribs. 

12-12. Cartilages of false ribs. 

13. Scapula, or collar bone. 

14. Fourteenth Dorsal Vertebra — The 
axis upon which the carcass is hung. 

15. Radius — Forearm. 

16. Ulna, or elbow. 

17. Pisiform, or pea-shaped bone. 

18. Cuneiform, or wedge-shaped bone. 

19. Lunar bone. 

20. Trapezoid, or table bone. 

21. Magnum, or large bone. 

22. Scaphoid, or cradle bone. 

23. Unciform. This, with the last six 
named, make up the carpus or knee of the 
front limb. 

24. Metacarpal, or cannon bone. 
25-26. Splint bones, two on each leg. 
27-28. Sesamoid bones, two on each leg. 

29. Large, or upper pastern bone. 

30. Small, or lower pastern bone. 

31. Pedal, coflSn, or foot bone. 

32. Wings of coffin, or foot bone. 



33-36 and 34-35. Coxoe— these bones with 
the sacrum form the pelvis. 
37. Femur, or thigh bone. 

Tibia, large leg bone. 

Calcis. 

Astralagus. 

Scaphoid or cradle bone. 

Cuneiform, or large wedge-shaped 



38. 

39. 

40. 

41. 

42. 
bone 

43. 

44. 
bone 



Cuboid, or cube bone. 
Little cuneiform, or wedge-shaped 
This, with the last five named, form 
the tarsus, or hock, of the hind limbs. 
45. Metatarsal, or cannon bone. 
46-47. External and internal splint bones. 

48. Humerus, or arm bone. 

49. Fibula annexed to tibia (.38). 

A. Molars. 

B. Canine teeth, or tusks. 

C. Incisors. 

E. Atlas— First vertebra, or joint of neck, 
articulating or jointing immediately with 
the occipital or liead bone, and sustaining 
the head. Hence its name. 

G. Orbit— Cavity in which the eye is situ- 
ated. 

M. Cariniform cartilage of head of hu- 
merus (48). 

N. Ensiform or sword-shaped cartilage 
of ulna (16). 

O. Coracoid process of scapula (13). 
Spine, or ridge of scapula (13). 
Cartilage of prolongation of scapula 



P. 
Q. 

(13). 
R. 

S. 



External trochanter of humerus (48). 
Sternum, or breast bone supporting 
the ribs. 

T. Trochlea, a pulley -like process of 
femur (37). 
U. External condyle of femur (37). 
V. Patella, or stifle annexed to femur (37). 
W. Hock joint. 
X. Major trochanter of femur (37). 



38 SCIENTIFIC HORSESHOEING. 



CHAPTER III. 
THE FOOT OF THE HORSE. 

LOCOMOTORY APPARATUS. 

The Subject Defined. — The object of this chapter is to 
pass in concise review, the organs or apparatus controlling or 
ministering to the function of locomotion in the horse, certainly 
one of the most important in the economy of the animal, by the 
necessary co-operation it affords the other organs and appara- 
tuses in the performance of their natural properties and func- 
tions, and similarly one of primary importance in approach- 
ing the study of its conditions in health and disease. For 
these reasons, then, a clear understanding of the foot in general 
is absolutely essential to every horseman and farrier, if they 
would profit by its harmonious action and acquire practical 
working ideas of the relation of its parts and the mode of their 
co-operation, to be remembered, applied and utilized. 

Motion in General. — The locomotory apparatus is com- 
posed of two kinds or systems of organs — the bones and mus- 
cles. The bones are the hard, passive portions, with joints and 
movable articulating surfaces providing for the necessary play 
•in their relative positions. The muscles, grouped around the 
bones, are the active portions of the movement — the motor 
engines of the limbs, in fact — being firmly attached to the bones 
at certain determinate points, either directly or by tendons, 
which contract upon the organs to be moved, and produce the 
different postures and various gaits of the living animal. 



THE FOOT OF THE HORSE. 39 

The Limbs in General. — The bony sections which com- 
pose the limbs are destined both for the support of the trunk 
and for its transport during progression. This double purpose 
marks a distinction between the fore and hind members. The 
front limbs, being nearest the center of gravity, have to sustain 
most of the body weight, and are therefore specially organized 
for this service. Thus, the scapula, or shoulder-bone, is at- 
tached only by muscles to the trunk, and the weight transmitted 
through them passes to the vertical bones of the leg below, 
which sustain the pressure without muscular assistance, but 
when it is finally thrown on the oblique bones of the foot, at 
the angle of the fetlock, nature has provided strong muscular 
bands for their support and maintenance. 

The hind limbs more especially play the part of propelling 
agents in the locomotory acts, and are joined in an angular 
manner to the different regions and by direct bony connection 
of the pelvis with the vertebral column, as may be seen by 
glancing at the skeleton, Fig. 2. Muscular agency is there- 
fore necessary to support these columns, but notw^ithstanding 
the difference in functions assigned these limbs, they offer 
striking resemblances to each other, and what remains to be 
said of one is to be considered applicable alike to all. 

The Foot in General. — The limits of this region are cus- 
tomarily held to extend from the lower end of the cannon or 
shank-bone, to the coffin- or pedal-bone, inclusive, possessing^ 
the elements of a single digit inclosed in one hoof. Approach- 
ing a little nearer, we will proceed with the subject, from 
within to without, by first glancing at the parts contained in 
the hoof, returning afterward to a description of the horny 
case itself. 

The parts contained in the hoof may be given thus : 1. The 
pedal- or coffin-bone, and the navicular-bone, and the lower end 
of the small pastern, forming the articulation of the foot. 2. 



40 SCIENTIFIC HORSESHOEING. 

The ligaments binding this joint. 3. The terminations of the 
tendons that flex and extend the foot from their insertions in the 
coffin-bone. 4. The soft structures of the foot. 5. The sen- 
sitive structures, including the vessels and nerves of this region. 

Bones of the Foot. — In addition to the foregoing, it is 
customary to include in each complete digit the ankle, and 
fetlock, as constituting the apparent foot of a horse. The 
bones of this region are then divided into three sections — 
reckoning from above to below — placed end to end one upon 
another, which are termed the phalanges. The first com- 
prises the large or upper pastern-bone and the two sesa- 
moids, which unite wath the lower head of the cannon-bone 
in forming the pastern-joint. The second phalanx is composed 
of the small or lower pastern and by its contact with the upper 
pastern makes the pastern-joint. The third and last phalanx, 
terminating the limb, consists of the pedal- or coffin-bone and 
the navicular-bone, which unite with the lower end of the small 
pastern in forming the pedal- or coffin-joint. These bones are 
situated in an oblique direction downward and forward, and 
form the extremity of the digit upon which the soft structures 
of the foot are built, as shown in Fig. 3 and 5. 

The Pedal- or Coffin-bone. — The third phalanx of the foot 
has, from the earliest times, most occupied the attention of 
observers, owing to its greater liability than any bone of the 
extremities to injury from casualties natural to its peculiar situa- 
tion and uses. It is the base upon which the entire foot is 
constructed, sustaining the hoof that incloses it as it fixes itself on 
the ground, and acting as the point of leverage in receiving 
and applying the power involved in the movement of the limb. 
It is a very hard bone, very finely poroused with numerous 
perforations and channels for the penetration of blood-vessels 
and nerves supplying the enveloping tissues. Its lower bor- 



THE FOOT OF THE HOESE. 41 

■der swells forward in a half-circle and obliquely upward to a 
pyramidal eminence in its middle, on the front face of which is 
inserted the attachments of the principal extensor tendon of the 
foot, as shown in Fig. 4 and colored plates. 

The under face is hollowed out like an arch, corresponding 
to the sole of the hoof, and here the terminal tendon of the deep 
flexor of the foot — the flexor perforans — is inserted into the 
semi-lunar crest, widening in a remarkable manner over the 
median imprints, as shown in Fig. 12. 

There are two lateral wings to this bone directed back- 
ward, on the summit of which the lateral cartilages of the foot 
are implanted. 

Bones and their Articulations. — In all those situations 
which have to sustain violent eflbrts, the substance of the bones 
is found to be very compact, formed of a proper tissue, covered 
outside with a tough, elastic membrane — the periosteum — and 
are abundantly supplied with blood-vessels and nerves for their 
nutritive movement. On their articular surfaces — between the 
opposing heads or facets combining in the joints — they are cov- 
ered with layers of elastic cartilage, which are of the greatest 
importance in the smooth gliding movements of the bones and 
in the reduction of shocks and articular friction. When they 
are worn or transformed into bone, in consequence of cer- 
tain articular maladies, the movements become painful and very 
difl&cult. 

Ligaments and Lubricants.— The structures whose office 
is to brace and maintain the joints in contact and unite the 
movable surfaces are the ligaments. These are powerful auxil- 
iaries of the muscular forces, give permanent equilibrium to 
the weight, and secure the firm and effective working of the 
articular surfaces. A serous membrane covers the internal 
face of the ligaments, which secretes the synovia, a kind of 



42 SCIENTIFIC HORSESHOEING. 

animal oil that facilitates the gliding of the articular surfaces 
and tendons. It is the vital lubricant of the living machine, and 
its use in the animal economy is identical with that of other 
greasy substances employed to lubricate mechanical bearings- 
See colored plates. 

Muscles of the Foot and Leg. — Following the indication 
given of the passive organs of locomotion, the bony levers and 
their joints, comes a reference to the active agents whose func- 
tion it is to move them. These are the muscles, and form, gen- 
erally speaking, the fleshy covering surrounding the bony 
frame-work and grouped around and attached to the bones of 
the extremities. 

The situation and direction of the muscles are important 
features to be acquired with regard to their arrangement and 
use in communicating motion to the leg and foot, for it allows 
the determination of the angle of incidence of a muscle on its 
arm of the lever,*the relation of its principal axis to the vertical 
line, and its comparison with the axis of the bony lever which it 
moves. If the direction of the muscles be compared with that 
of the bones of the limb that they move, it will be found that 
they are parallel to these levers, and the proper direction of the 
bones being known to be rectilinear, that is, their principal axis 
being straight or parallel to the median plane of the body, it is 
sufficient to indicate that of the muscles to clearly establish this 
comparison. Undoubtedly the most essential part of the study 
of the muscles is their attachments or insertions, for with this 
knowledge we may determine their extent and direction, and 
even their relations and uses. The principal muscles of the 
extremities have fixed insertions of a cordy structure known as 
tendon or sinew. The superficial muscles are only related to 
the bones by their extremities, while the deep muscles are ap- 
plied by their bodies directly against the bones of the skeleton. 
Three principal tendons serve to move the bones of the foot. 



THE FOOT OF THE HORSE. 4^ 

Two of these flex or bend the joints while the other straightens 
the column of bones thus displaced. The superficial flexor of 
the foot is the flexor perforatus, which is attached to the sides of 
the lower pastern-bone and flexes the ankle at the fetlock. The- 
deep flexor of the foot is the flexor perforans, inserted into the 
bottom of the cofiin-bone, whence it bends the cofl&n-joint and 
with it the whole foot. The front extensor tendon of the foot 
is attached to the pyramidal process of the coffin-bone. There- 
are many other minor muscles, fixed and movable, connected 
with the cannon, splints, and other bones of the limb, which as- 
sist in the various movements and in their degree relieve the 
controlling muscles of a share of the stress of weight, as well as 
of whatever force or stain is brought to bear upon them. See- 
Fig. 4 and colored plates. 

Soft Tissues. — The bones, ligaments and muscles of tne 
foot are covered by a loose connective tissue, which gives sym- 
metry to the parts, and all are protected by the external cover- 
ing of skin and horn tissues. I have already mentioned that in 
connection with the coffin-bone there is a supplementary appa- 
ratus of cartilage formation. This is composed of two lateral 
pieces, representing a thin flat plate on each side, of a fibrous 
elastic substance, pierced with openings for the passage of veins 
and nerves of the digital region. They are united behind and 
below to the plantar cushion, and in front cover the articulation 
of the coffin-joint and synovial sac, blending into the ligaments 
at that point. These cartilages are adapted to act as pads in 
easing shocks caused by exertions of the foot, but it often 
happens that they undergo changes and are invaded by an 
ossifying process which converts them into bone, as explained 
in a subsequent chapter. 

The coronary cushion is a continuation of the skin and 
forms an intermediate juncture between it and the wall of the 
hoof, of which it is the matrix. It occupies a groove, called 



44 SCIEXTIFIC HORSESHOEING. 

the cutigeral cavity, at the upper border of the horny wall, 
and. forms a rounded prominence of dense, thick fibers, and 
assists in the elastic action of the cartilages and laminar tissues. 
Its surface is tufted with villi and shows a considerable number 
of nerves and blood-vessels which branch through its sub- 
stance and secrete the horny tissue of the wall. Around its 
upper border is a narrow, lip-like margin called the perioplic 
ring, from which exudes the periople — the natural horny var- 
nish of the wall. The coronary cushion mingles with the in- 
ternal tissues of the foot and becomes continuous with the 
bulbs of the sensitive frog. See colored plates. 

Sensitive Tissues. — The sensitive frog, or plantar cushion, 
is a thick, wedge-shaped mass of fibrous structure of fine 
elastic pulp situated beneath and behind the foot bones (to 
which it is attached) and between the back tendons (which it 
supports) and the lower part of the hoof. It is lodged in the 
fissures of the horny frog, receiving the spur or frog stay in the 
middle of its pyramidal body, which thus divides it into two 
diverging bulbs exactly like that of the outer frog to which it 
corresponds. At the point, or apex in front, it becomes con- 
tinuous with the sensitive sole, and at the sides is attached to 
the lower edges of the cartilages. The base, formed by the 
bulbs behind, is inclined upward, and mixes its fibers with the 
cartilages and coronary cushion. Numerous blood-vessels and 
nerves complete this structure. See colored plates. 

The sensitive sole, or velvety tissue, is the formative organ of 
the horny sole and frog. It is much thinner than the plantar 
cushion, and extends over or under the entire plantar region as 
well as the plantar cushion, which it covers by adapting itself 
to the inequalities of this elastic mass. This tissue shows the 
same structure as the coronary cushion, with the extremities of 
which it unites on the bulbs of the frog continuing above the 
laminae on the bars. The surface of this tissue is studded with 



THE FOOT OF THE HORSE. 45 

villi, similar to those on the coronary cushion, which penetrate 
into and supply the horny sole and frog, and in its meshes are 
sustained the veins of the lower surface of the foot. See col- 
ored plates. 

Continuous with the sensitive sole (and re;3embling it in 
structure), and spreading over the entire outer or upper face of the 
coliin-bone until it is merged into the projecting substance of 
the coronary cushion, is a villous sheath, called the keratogenous 
membrane or laminal tissue, which completes the sensitive en- 
velopes of the extremity of the digit. This laminal tissue ex- 
hibits on the external face of the coffin-bone a series of fine 
elastic leaves, called the sensitive laminae, which lie in parallel 
rows, to the number of five or six hundred, running from above 
to below, separated by narrow, somewhat deep channels, into 
which are dovetailed similar horny leaves from the wall and 
bars of the hoof. This leafy tissue is intimately attached to the 
cofiin-bone through the medium of the reticulum, which also 
supports the veins that supply its secretion. Like the other 
vascular tissues, it is very richly supplied with blood-vessels and 
nerves, and is at once the seat of acute sensation and the point 
where the active changes of inflammation — villitis and lami- 
nitis — are especially concentrated, becoming morbidly increased 
through the efiects of bad shoeing, hard pulling, or driving and 
other like abuses. These parts are, in fact, the principal instru- 
ments concerned in the sensory apparatuses of the horse's foot, 
and the sensitive laminse play a most important mechanical part 
in concurring, by their dovetailing with the horny laminse, in 
securing the solidity of the hoof with the living parts as well as 
in supporting the weight of the animal, which is distributed 
through them upon the base of the wall. See colored plates. 

Circulation of the Foot. — As we have indicated in the 
foregoing analysis, all the soft or sensitive tissues of the foot are 
freely supplied with blood, in greater or less quantities, de- 



46 SCIENTIFIC HORSESHOEING. 

pending upon the function which the tissue has to perform. 
If this is great, as in the more sensitive parts of the foot, a large 
amount of blood is required, if the labor is a less exciting one, 
as in the cartilages, and ligaments or membranes, the nutrition 
is furnished by imbibing the fluids brought to the surface by 
blood-vessels. The blood is carried from the heart to the vari- 
ous organs by the arteries or their small terminations, and is 
named red or arterial blood. The veins of general circulation 
bring the nutritive fluid back to the heart, and, according 
to its tint, it is named dark colored or venous blood. Both 
systems present at their extremities innumerable branches, 
which finally join each other, so that the fluid they carry 
passes from one to the other in a constant or circular di- 
rection. Between the two are small delicate networks of ves- 
sels called capillaries, which subdivide into a regular lacework 
so as to reach the neighborhood of every element. 

Nerve Supply. — The amount of blood, under normal con- 
ditions is governed by nerves of the sympathetic system 
which regulate the conditions of repose and activity. The 
nerves issue from the cranium and branch into all the organs 
like the arteries which they generally accompany. They fur- 
nish the stimulus to animal life, and in the digits are the 
essential instruments of touch or sensation. Three branches 
of the internal and external plantar nerves furnish the foot on 
each side, and accompany the digital artery and vein, which at 
some points they cover with their divisions. The order of their 
distribution and termination, together with that relating to 
the circulatory system of the foot generally, will be clearly 
comprehended by a glance at the several colored plates illus- 
trating this section. 

Horny Tissues. — The hoof of the horse — considered as a 
whole — represents the horny outer covering, completing the ex- 



THE FOOT OF THE HORSE. 47 

tremity of the digit. It answers to the same natural purpose as 
the nail in man, by protecting the sensitive parts beneath. It 
is united most intimately with the internal tissues by the in- 
terlocking processes of the surfaces in contact, and is made up 
of three portions — the wall, sole and frog. 

The Wall. — The wall is that portion visible when the foot 
rests on the ground, the middle of which is termed the toe, 
the adjoining fronts of face are the inside and outside toes, 
while the side regions are the quarters, the back extremities are 
the heels, which fold underneath and terminate in the bars. 
These parts are all continuous, diminishing in height and thick- 
ness from toe to heels, and all are lined with the horny leaves 
referred to. The bars are separated from the frog by lateral 
excavations called commissures, until they gradually fuse into 
6ole. They form a lateral brace to the heels, limiting expan- 
sion and opposing contraction in these parts. The outside 
of the upper border is hollowed out, forming the cutigeral 
cavity of the coronary cushion and perioplic ring. 

The Sole. — The sole incloses the hoof on the ground sur- 
face, between the wall and bars, with which it is united through- 
out its extent. Its upper surface corresponds with the sen- 
sitive sole, showing the pores receiving the velvety tufts, and its 
external face is more or less concave according to circumstances. 
It IS a thick horny plate, scaling off after a certain natural 
growth, and is designed to cover and protect the internal foot. 

The Frog. — Between the A shaped angle formed by the 
inflection of the bars at the heels, the frog — a prominent mass 
of spongy horn — is lodged. It is wedge-shaped, with its point 
near the center of the sole, to which it closely adheres along 
its lines as they diverge backward, where it becomes contin- 
uous with the coronary band. The frog is separated into two 



48 SCIENTIFIC HORSESHOEING. 

external branches by a median cleft, each branch forming a 
rounded elastic eminence at the heels where they cover the 
angles of inflection of the wall. The internal face of the frog 
is indented with pores like the sole, and is molded to conform 
to the body of the sensitive frog, having a triangular fissure 
divided- into two channels by a spine or ridge-like spur, called 
the frog-stay, into and over which the sensitive frog is bedded. 
The frog, like the sole, exfoliates or scales off by usage and 
growth, and is the natural bufter of a healthy foot when al- 
lowed to come in contact with the ground. 

Development of the Hoof. — The horny substance consti- 
tuting the hoof of a horse is of a fibrous nature, formed of mi- 
nute hair-like tubes, cemented together by a tenacious opaque 
matter, taking its general color from the skin of the limb to 
which it adjoins ; the inner face of the wall, however, is al- 
ways of a light tint. The horny tissue of the hoof, being a de- 
pendency of the skin, is developed like it; that is, by cells in 
rows and layers. The perioplic ring forms the beriople; the 
coronary cushion, the wall, and the velvety tissue, the sole and 
frog. The consistence of the horn in the wall is dense, solid 
and compact, while that of the sole and frog is of a scaly,, 
spongy nature. The growth of the wall of the hoof is constant 
or indefinite, but the sole and frog, after attaining a certain 
thickness, exfoliate and fall off, unless prevented by shoes from 
maintaining their natural flexibility. See colored plates. 

It may here be noted that the angle of wall of the hoof in 
front varies from forty-five to fifty-six degrees. The inner face 
of the wall at the middle of the toe is in line with the frog-stay, 
and in mules frequently shows a more or less prominence of base 
toward the lower margin of wall, which corresponds to a ver- 
tical depression in the coflin-bone, and it is not improbable that 
it serves the same purpose as the frog-stay — to maintain the posi- 
tion of the coflin-bone, and prevent its rotation within the hoof- 



THE P^OOT OP^ THE HORSE. 49 

Importance of the Subject. — The foot of the horse is an 
extremely important study because of the numerous diseases 
which aftect this region, but what I have said, in thus review- 
ing the structure and normal condition of the essential organs 
of locomotion, will probably be sufficient to include whatever 
nnay be necessary to insure a ready comprehension of the 
other essential matters which are to follow, and facilitate a clear 
understanding of the requirements necessary to that perfection 
and regularity which characterize the natural performance of the 
various movements of the horse. 

So long as the bones muscles and tendons; the joints with 
their ligaments, cartilages and their synovial structure ; the 
nerves and the controlling influences which they exercise over 
all, with the blood-vessels which distribute to every part the 
vitalizing fluid which sustains the whole in being and activity — 
so long as these various constituents and adjuncts of animal life 
preserve their physiological functions, locomotion will continue 
to be performed with perfection and efficiency. Other points 
of pathological interest, relating to obstruction or misdirection 
and lack of balance in certain portions of the locomotory appara- 
tus, will receive due attention as we proceed with the illustration 
of our subject and examine the matters which it most concerns 
us to bring under consideration. 



60 



SCIENTIFIC HORSESHOEING. 



A, Pedal- or coflfin-bone — 
third phalanx terminating 
the foot. 

B, Extremity of navicular 
bone. 

C, Small or lower pastern 
bone— second phalanx. 

D, Large or upper pastern 
bone — first phalanx. 

E, Pyramidal process on 
coffin-bone, which gives in- 
sertion to the tendon of the 
front extensor of the foot, 
and which braces the joint 
by preventing the pastern 
from slipping too far forward. 

F, Basilar process of wing 
to which the lateral cartilage 
is attached. 

Fig. 3. sidk view of the phalanqial sections G, Irregular ridge above 
OF THE FOOT, SHOWING THE BONES OF THE DIGITAL the retrorsal process or pre- 

REGION INTHKIBNORMALREL.^TIONSTOEACH OTHER, plantar flSSUre, thrOUgh 

which passes the lateral 
laminal and preplantar un- 
gual arteries and their satel- 
lite nerves. 

The lower face of this bone is arched, and into its crest is 
fixed the insertion of the deep flexor of the foot. The articula- 
tions of these bones with each other, and with the lower extrem- 
ity of the cannon-bone, form the ankle and fetlock joints. The 
line through their central axis defines the natural incidence of 
the weight in its descent from the body, and indicates that the 
natural inclination of the coffin-bone is in direct line with the 
pasterns- 




THE FOOT OF THE HORSE. 



51 



A, Flexor perforatus (attai-lied to lower pas- 
tern bone). 

B, Flexor perforans (inserted under coffin- 
bone). 

C, Metacarpal or cbeck ligament of the per- 
forans tendon. 

D, Suspensory ligament of the fetlock. 

E, Front extensor tendon (inserted into front 
of coffin-bone). 

F, Splint bone on outer side of the cannon. 

G, Branching of the suspensory. 
H, Branch of same passing forward to join 

the extensor tendon. 

I, J, K, Periosteum membrane covering the 
surfaces of the cannon and pastern bones. 

L, Fibrous reticulum covering the face of the 
coffin-bone and forming the reticular tissue leaves, 
or sensitive laminae, which dovetail into the horny 
leaves of the wall, completing the union of these 
regions. 

M, The pastern-supporting or check liga- 
ment. This has never before been shown in 
anatomical drawings. It binds the upper head 
of the lower pastern to the lower head of 
the u})per pastern, and is located midway be- 
tween the flexor tendon and upper pas- 
tern bone. Its office is plainly duplex — it 
holds the ankle and pastern joint firmly 
in position, and divides the strain with the 
flexor tendon in its severe down- 
ward action. 




Fig. 4. external side view of left fkont 
limb, showing the articulations, tendons, 
and ligaments of the knee, fetlock, and 

FOOT. 



52 



SCIENTIFIC HORSESHOEING. 



A, Coffin-bone. 

B, Navicular-bone. 

C, Lower pastern-bone. 

D, Upper pa^ern-bone. 

E, Cannon-bone. 

P, Velvety tissue or sensitive sole. 
G, Horny wall. 
H, Horny sole. 

I, Horny frog. 

K, Plantar-cushion or sensitive sole. 

L, Horny laminse. 

M, Sensitive laminae. 

N, Front extensor tendon. 

O, Perforatus (superficial flexor). 

P, Perforans (deep flexor of the foot 
inserted under the coffin-bone. 

Q, Metacarpal ligament (joining the 
perforans tendons. 

B,, Suspensory ligament of the fet- 
lock. 

S, Sesamoid-bone (dotted line). 

T, Branch of per- 
foratus tendon attached 
to lower pastern-bone. 




Fig. 5. median section of front digit, from base 
OF foot to head of cannon bone, showing arrange- 
ment of the articular and muscular apparatus. 



The dotted line through center of digital bones shows the 
line of action of weight from above to below, and marks the 
normal ansrle of the foot. 



THE FOOT OF THE HORSE. 



53 




Fig. 6. side view of the outside half of the right front foot with 
wall of the hoof removed, showing numerous leaves of the sensitive 
laminal tissue. 



A, Median section of the hoof, continued through wall, sole and frog. 
B, Base of hoof on opposite side. C, The keratogenous membrane or sensi- 
tive laminse, covering the upper face of the pedal-bone, consisting of vascular 
leaves, designed to interlock with the horny laminte on the inner face of the 
wall of the hoof. D, The coronary-cushion, showing its continuance to the 
bulbs of the plantar-cushion at the heel and the perioplic ring around its upper 
border 

To the great vascularity of these sensitive tissues is due the 
bright red color they show on the surface. They form in their 
connection with the plantar surface of the velvety tissue, the es- 
sential apparatus of touch and feeling in the foot. They are, in 
addition, highly elastic and assist in the springy action so neces- 
sary to the ease of the foot when exerted in speed or in the severe 
strains of drawing heavy loads. 



54 



SCIENTIFIC HORSESHOEING. 




A, Numerous leaves of the sensi- 
tive laminae (podophyllous tissue) 
formed by the reticulum covering the 
external face of the coffin-bone, and 
which interlock with the horny 
leaves (keraphyllous tissue) of the 
surrounding wall. 

B, Coronary-cushion, the organ 
which develops the horny wall, and 
acts in reciprocal relation between it 
and the skin above, as an elastic 
medium ,of connection. It also 
unites in the same manner with the 
vascular laminae, and is prolonged 
downward at the back, into the bulbs 
of the plantar-cushion and the villous 
tunic of the velvety tissue. 



Fig. 7. front view of the horse's 

FOOT, showing the SUPERFICIAL APPEAR- 
ANCE OF THE KERATOGENOUS MEMBRANE, 
OR LAMINAL TISSUE, AFTER REMOVAL OF 
THE HOOF. 



The villi of the coronary-cushion and velvety tissue deter- 
mine the structure and maintain the elasticity of the entire 
hoof. The laminal tissue has the property of throwing out a tem- 
porary horn, whether exposed hy stripping off the hoof or by 
the active changes of inflammation, but this must be replaced by 
that from the coronet when the foot returns to its normal condi- 
tion. 



THE FOOT OF THE HORSE. 



55 



Fig. 8. internal structures of the region of 
the left fore-foot as seen from the outer side. 

A, Lateral cartilage of the coffin-bone. 

B, Reticulum, enveloping the coffin-bone, sus- 
taining the blood-vessels and laminal tissues of 
this region. 

C, Tendon of the front extensor of the foot to 
its insertion on eminence of coffin-bone. 

D, Terminal of the side extensor of the foot. 

E, Rear face of the sesamoid branch of the 
transverse ligament. 

F, Periosteum membrane, covering the surfaces 
of the cannon and pastern bones. 




These plates represent the arteries in red, the veins in blue, 
and the nerves in white. Each of these systems maintains the 
most intimate relations with the others and meets in the extremi- 
ties in various forms of branches, collaterals, and ganglionic en- 
largements, remarkable alike for their large volume, intricate 
reticulation and extreme delicacy. 

The divisions shown in this plate are the digital and ungual 
arteries and veins of the plantar region, the veins of the coro- 
nary plexus, and the median circumflex artery of the foot to- 
gether with the digital branches of the median or cubic plantar 
nerve. 



56 



SCIENTIFIC HORSESHOEING. 




B, Continuation of the fibrous reticulum, 
for the support of the vessels and leafy tissue on 
the coffin-bone. 

C, Tendon of the front extensor of the foot 
going on to the coffin-bone. 

E, Rear margin of sesamoid ligament. 

F, Periosteum of the cannon- and pastern- 
bones. 



Fig. 9. internal structures of the region of 

THE left fore FOOT, AS SEEN FROM THE INNER SIDE. 

The digital arteries and veins course almost immediately be- 
neath the skin. Descending from above the fetlock joint they 
follow the course of the flexor tendon and throw out innumerable 
twigs and divergant ramifications to supply the surfaces, as well 
as the deeper tissue substances of the foot. Those shown in this 
plate are the perpendicular artery, circumflex coronary, artery 
of the plantar cushion, preplantar ungual, venous network of the 
laminal tissue, coronary plexus, and the deep cartilaginous layer 
— all flanked by the plantar nerve, which interlaces them with 
numerous filaments. 



THE FOOT OF THE HORSE. 



57 



Fig. 10. FRONT view of the foot region, 

SHOWING THK arrangement OF THE INTER- 
NAL STRUCTURES. 

A, Front border of the lateral cartilage 
of the coffin-bone (the corresponding piece 
on the other side having been removed). 

B, Continuation of the reticulum, form- 
ing the membraneous net, which holds in its 
meshes the dependent vessels and laminal 
tissues on the coffin-bone. 

C, Tendon of the front extensor of the 
foot to its insertion in the coffin-bone. 

D, Terminal of the side extensor of the 
foot. 

F, Inner and outer borders of the can- 
non-bone. 




The external and collateral branches of the perpendicular 
artery and satellite veins and nerves are here shown by their an- 
terior branches, which concur in forming the articular branch of 
the phalanx, veiny plexus of the coronary crown circle, and net 
of the reticular tissue, accompanied by the vasa motor nerves 
belonging to the plantar system. 



68 



SCIENTIFIC HORSESHOEING. 




A, Rear border of the lateral cartilage 
(the other being omitted). 

B, Pyramidal base or bulbs of the plan- 
tar cushion or sensitive frog, interposed be- 
tween the perforans tendon and the horny 
hoof. 

C, Reinforcing phalangeal sheath cover- 
ing the perforans tendon and the suspen- 
sory ligament with a fibrous expansion and 
attaching itself to the larger part of the 
pastern-bones. 

D, Flexor perforans at its exit from 
between the two branches of the perforatus. 

E, Superficial bundle or ring of the 
sesamoid ligament. 

F, Flexor perforatus, giving off two 
branches toward the bottom, which become 
attached to the lower pastern-bone. 



Fig. 11. BACK OF the foot re- 
gion, SHOWING THE INTERNAL AR- 
RANGEMENT OP THE PHALANGES. 



The arteries, veins and nerves are the posterior oflshoots of 
the internal and external collaterals, furnishing this region same 
as previously referred to. 



THE FOOT OF THE HORSE. 



59 




FrCi. 12. PLANTAR SURFACE AT LOWER FACE OF THE THIRD OR UNGUAL 
PHALANX OF THE FOOT, THE PEDAL, OR COFFIN-BONE, UPON WHICH THE DIGIT IS 
BASED 

This view represents the sole of the bone covered by the 
plantar reticulum and shows the origin of the preplantg^r ungual 
artery as it emerges at the retrossal process of the wings and 
loops into the semi-lunar anastomotic arch, communicating in 
the bone. The radiating branches from this arch and from the 
outer border correspond with the affluents of Figs. 13 and 14. 
The nerves shown are the descending posterior branches of the 
preplantar nerve, accompanying the digital artery on the retros- 
sal process, traversing the cartilages and laminal tissues, and 
terminating around the plantar ungual artery in the plantar 
fissure. 

The attachment of the deep flexor of the foot — the per- 
forans — is shown as covering the semi-lunar crest and the me- 
dian imprints of this bone ; widening into a large expansion 
designated the plantar aponeurosis. This terminal expansion is 
covered by the plantar cushion which adheres to it most inti- 
mately. This muscle flexes the phalanges on one another, and 
it also concurs in flexing the entire foot on the fore-arm. 



60 



SCIENTIFIC HORSESHOEING. 




A, Lower border of the lateral 
cartilage of the coffin-bone (the 
part corresponding to this on the 
other side being detached for 
this illustration.) 

B, The proper tissue, or vil- 
lous tunic of the reticulum, 
which is correlated to the upper 
surface of the velvety tissue, 
and answers to the periosteum 
on the coffin-bone, which it en- 
velopes like a villous sheath. 

C, The periphery of the re- 
ticular tissue, conspicuous for 
the divisions of arteries and ves- 
sels which it sustains and which 
prevail so largely throughout 

Fig. 13. the plantar reticulum or kera- the whole extent of the plantar 

TOGENOUS MEMBRANE COVERING THE LOWER FACE g„j.face 
OF THE COFFIN-BONE, AND SUSTAINING IN ITS 
MESHES THE VEINS OF THE SOLAR PLEXUS. 



The venous apparatus of the digital region is remarkable 
for the number, distribution and interlaced disposition of the 
vessels composing it. They are extended over and molded 
on the two last phalanges of the foot, discharging themselves 
by numerous descending and ascending branches, converging in 
flexiform nets and arches, and communicating with each other, 
or traversing every element, by an intricate system of arte- 
rioles or venules, analogous to the capillary system. 



THE FOOT OF THE HORSE. 



61 



A, Lower face of the 
velvety tissue, or sensi- 
tive sole immediately 
overlying the horny 
sole, which it secretes. 

B, Base, or bulbs of 
the plantar cushion, sep- 
arated by the depression 
or cleft ( median lacuna) , 
on the inside of which 
the spur or stay of the 
horny frog reaches. 

C, Return of the bars 
to their junction with 
the wall. 

D, Arch, or spring of 
the bars, formed by their 
angle of inflection at the 
heels, also showing the 
laminal leaves covering 
them. 




Fig. 14. the lower face of the horse's foot, 

AFTER removal OF THE HORNY HOOF. 



The arteries forming the plexus or network furnishing this 
region of the foot are similar to those shown on the other 
plates, and like them proceed from the parent trunk, descending 
on the side of the digit, terminating in the plantar ungual 
branch from which the inferior communicating arteries pass 
through the foramina just above the edge of the coffin-bone, 
branching closely over the laminal tissue and uniting below to 
form the large circumflex, or peripheral artery, which runs 
around the toe. They also help to form the inferior circumflex 
artery and finally join the coronary plexus — collectively form- 
ing the circulatory apparatus of the entire digital region. 



62 



SCIENTIFIC HORSESHOEING. 




Fk;. 15. A PERFECT JIOOF, REMOVED FROM THE FOOT, fSIIO\V]N(i A I.ATERAL 
1'08TERI0R VIEW OF A SOIND NATURAL AND HEALTHY DEVELOPMENT OF WALL — 
HOI!NV LAMIN.E — CORONARY CHAMIiER — SOLE, FRO(i-?STAY, FLSSl'RES AND BARS. 



THE FOOT OF THE HORSE. 63 

BRIEF OUTLINE OF ANATOMY OF THE FOOT. 

Adapted from the Subject-matter of tltix Chapter. 

It should be studied by all who wish to get a brief, con- 
nected view of the principal parts and practical workings of the 
locomotory apparatus of the horse. 

Q. 1. What constitutes the apparatus of locomotion? 

A. The bones and muscles co-operating with the vital or- 
ganism. 

Q. 2. "What does the " foot " or " digital region " imply ? 

A. It includes the ankle from the fetlock down, comprised 
in a single hoof. 

Q. 3. What bones enter into its formation ? 

A. The lower end of the cannon, the two sesamoids, upper 
and lower pasterns ; navicular and coffin-bones form the skele- 
ton on which the other structures are built. 

Q. 4. How do these co-operate ? 

A. They concur to form joints, which provide for the nec- 
essary motion. (For details, see Figs. 3 to 5.) 

Q. 5. Name the joints of the foot or digit. 

A. There are three of them — the fetlock, pastern, and coffin 
joints, made by the union of two or more bones moving one 
upon the other. 

Q. 6. What completes the jointed processes ? 

A. They are held together by ligaments, and are lubricated 
by the synovial fluid secreted by the inclosing membrane. 

Q. 7. What further of their work ? 

A. That they are of special importance to the value of the 
animal, and are the parts most subject to impairment from in- 
jury or disease. 

Q. 8. What muscles co-operate in the foot action ? 

A. The two principal muscles that flex or bend the foot are 



64 SCIENTIFIC HORSESHOEING. 

the perforatus and perforans, and one principal muscle, the front 
extensor, straightens or thrusts the foot forward. (See Figs. 
4 and 5.) 

Q. 9. What is the significance of their positions and inser- 
tions? 

A. Knowing the action of the bones to be straightforward 
and back, we know that the muscles must act on the same line. 

Q. 10. What duty do the navicular and small sesamoids per- 
form? 

A. They act as pulleys (and supports annexed to the joints) 
in facilitating the gliding movements of the muscles which pass 
over them. 

Q. 11, What do we understand by the " soft tissues" of the 
foot? 

A. They comprise various organs of cartilage, fibrous or 
elastic tissues for the development of other tissues, and for easing 
concussion on the hard organs. 

Q. 12. What are the principal apparatuses thus referred to ? 

A. The lateral cartilages, the coronary and plantar cushions. 

Q. 13. What further do we know concerning them ? 

A. The cartilages are pads at the sides of the foot, the 
coronary cushion secretes the horny wall, and the plantar cush- 
ion acts as a support to the back tendons. 

Q. 14. What are the " sensitive tissues "? 

A. The laminal or leafy tissue and the velvety tissue, 
which are continuous with the membrane covering the entire 
foot. 

Q. 15. What is the function of the laminse ? 

A. They form the connection between the internal foot and 
the encasing hoof, by dovetailing into the horny leaves on the 
wall, and thus support the action of the two parts. 

Q. 16. What of the velvety tissue ? 

A. This is the covering of the sole of the coffin-bone, the 



THE FOOT OF THE HOESE. 65 

sensitive sole of the foot, and secretes the outer horny sole and 
frog. 

Q. 17. What relation does the hoof sustain to the foot? 

A. It serves as the outer covering or case, and protects the 
internal parts from external violence. 

Q. 18. What is scientific borseshoing? 

A. It is a noble artificial skill of man working in conjunc- 
tion with nature, to keep the foot in its natural formation. The 
shoe is to protect the foot from external injuries. 

Q. 19. How many acts are there to be performed before the 
foot is properly shod. 

A. There are three acts required : First, to remove all the 
surplus growth, and properly shape the foot to its natural form 
and size. Second, to select a bar of iron or steel, make and fit 
a shoe of suitable w^eight for which the foot and leg requires, 
and the work the horse has to perform and fit properly to the 
foot. Third, to nail the shoe to the foot. 

Each of these operations must work in entire harmony with 

the rest, otherwise one would undo the others. Thus, the shoe 

must be properly adjusted and accurately driven on the foot, or 

the utility of the preceding acts would be destroyed or crippled. 

5 



6B SCIENTIFIC HOKSESHOEING. 



CHAPTER IV. 
PRACTICAL HORSESHOEING 

METHODS OF SCIENCE, ART, AND COMMON SENSE. 

Necessity of Shoeing. — Since the employment of the 
horse in many pursuits renders it necessary that an artificial pro- 
tection be employed to preserve his feet from injurious wear, it 
becomes a consideration of the first importance to know the 
proper method of doing this without seriously interfering with 
or destroying the functions of the foot, and so as in the least, 
to constrain its natural gestures while employing its fullest 
powers. 

The effects of applying an iron defense to the horse's foot 
and securing it to the hoof with nails, are no doubt a source of 
injury to that organ, and even with the best of care a few of 
them are unavoidable ; but they are increased in number and 
heightened in intensity, when the shoe is badly constructed and 
attached, whereas a right understanding of the subject will 
teach that those evils which are unavoidable may at least be 
greatly mitigated. 

There are some points on the question of shoeing notori- 
ously at issue between writers and shoers, theorists, and prac- 
titioners, so that hardly any agreement can be found to exist 
even on essential principles, and this diversity of opinion will 
probably continue until the known human artifices shall have 
been superseded by unknown or natural agencies. 

All agree, however, that some artificial shield to the horse's 
foot is necessary, for employed as he is, his hoofs are unable to 
withstand the severe demands imposed upon them : the wear 
more than exceeds the growth. 



PRACTICAL HORSESHOEING, 69 

Ag'din, all unite in the belief that nothing more simple, in- 
expensive and efficient than a well-devised iron or steel shoe 
can at present be produced to meet the exigencies of the case, 
nor can the safe and ready method of attaching it by nails be 
displaced by any other means that we are acquainted with. 

Having to deal with the facts as we find them, therefore, let 
us turn to a consideration of the best means which lie in our 
power of reducing, as much as possible, the evils so frequently 
attendant upon the practice of shoeing as commonly pursued. 

Past and Present. — Bad and indifferent shoeing are pro- 
ductive of but one result — serious injury to the animals shod — and 
rendering them more or less unfit for active service. It is the 
exercise of a higher knowledge and its scientific application 
that constitutes the true " art, trade and mystery " of farriery, 
as exemplified in the best practice of to-day; in which science, 
as well as art and common sense, are operating to supplant the 
irrational, time-honored customs (which were once a portion of 
the blacksmith's creed), and are now gradually raising the science 
of horshoeing above the baneful influences of ignorance and 
traditional routine, to that position which its practical import- 
ance as a great national economic question justly entitles it. 

When it is thus conceded that some of the operations and 
practices of the art have been materially altered and improved 
upon, it is none the less true that the ordinary system of horse- 
shoeing, as it obtains in average hands, has not kept pace with 
the advancement noted. In too many instances it is observable 
that the art of the farrier is at variance with the workings of 
nature, and what satisfies the one outrages the demands of the 
otiier. The result is strikingly conspicuous in the number of 
lame, maimed, diseased or disabled horses, involving a direct 
loss of valuable property, as well as much needless suffering in 
the noblest of our dumb animals. And to misapplied shoeing. 



70 SCIENTIFIC HORSESHOEING. 

a very large proportion of these evils is, beyond all doubt, di- 
rectly or indirectly traceable. 

Important to Horsemen. — The shoeing of horses is a work 
practically belonging to the smith, but as gentlemen and others 
who are owners of horses ought to know and be able to distinguish, 
at least in some degree, when it is ill or well done, it would seem 
an unnecessary precaution to recommend a matter of such per- 
sonal interest to their attention. It is really surprising to learn, 
however, how indifferent or neglectful of the well-being of their 
horses' feet and legs so many owners and drivers are. The foot 
is undoubtedly the most important part of the animal, so far as 
his ultimate usefulness is concerned. And the affair of shoeing 
is so important in its consequences, both for the preservation of 
the foot, the safety of the legs, and the ease and comfort of 
their motion that horsemen and proprietors can not be too at- 
tentive to practical recommendations on the subject. For it 
must be borne in mind that among horseshoers there is as great 
diversity of opinion in regard to the performance of their work 
as there possibly can be in any other trade or calling, and theo- 
retical speculations upon this subject have done but little for 
the farrier or the horse. I am convinced that many of these 
differences would disappear, together with most of the ailments 
and afflictions to which horses are liable under existing condi- 
tions, if a better knowledge of the natural formation of the foot 
and of the relative value and office of its various parts, per- 
vaded the great body of owners and trainers as a whole, than 
now exists. These troubles are caused, speaking generally, by 
the horse being out of balance on his feet, and, in justice to the 
much abused horseshoer, be it noted, they are quite as often due 
to erroneous ideas and " pet theories " of would-be horsemen 
being foisted into the workshop, as from any lack of ability or 
ingenuity on the part of the farrier. 

In veterinary surgery, too, as an effective remedial or cura- 



PKACTICAL HORSESHOEING. 71 

tive agent, for so many of the injuries and diseases affecting the 
health and soundness of the horse, scientific shoeing should 
occupy a foremost place ; yet it is a matter of deep regret that 
among this class of practitioners are many men who have neg- 
lected to properly study this most important branch of their 
profession, or, having acquired only an imperfect conception of it 
through books, are unable to direct it with necessary discretion 
to any salutary effect ; or, as has so frequently come within the 
trend of my experience, altogether pervert it, to the continued 
detriment of the patient and of the business interests involved 
as well. The moral of this is obvious. No humbug use of iron, 
nor theoretical experiments with it on the one side, nor blind 
groping in the dark on the other, will ever solve the " problems 
of farriery," simple and easy as they really are, but made 
difiicult contentions in the hands of quacks and ignorant 
practitioners. 

Essential knowledge, — To rescue the practice from such 
hands is the work of that higher knowledge to which I have 
already referred, and it is the application of such general facts 
of veterinary anatomy as explain the construction and functions 
of the foot, to the practical business of shoeing that will most 
largely contribute to this end. How, otherwise, can the smith 
he expected to understand the normal size, shape and structure 
of the foot upon which he operates, or how know the correct 
principles of shoeing and balancing a horse on his feet? 

When a horse is at the shoeing forge " it is a condition, not 
a theory," that confronts the smith, and there is no longer room 
for doubt, and unless he knows, with positive certainty, just how 
to preserve or obtain the proper balances and bearings of the 
foot he is utterly incapacitated to take charge of it. Science 
and art are combined in skillful shoeing. A knowledge of the 
structure and normal functions of every part of the foot, as well 
as of the legs from the knee and hock down, though not neces- 



72 SCIENTIFIC HORSESHOEING. 

sarily in their ultimate scientific minutiae, are as necessary to 
make a perfect shoer as is the mechanical skill to make a perfect 
shoe. 

Condensed Anatomy. — Fully appreciating the importance 
of these suggestions and knowing that an accumulation of detail 
often deters the average reader and thus defeats the design of 
the writer, a concise review of the general anatomy of the horse's 
foot will be introduced here, containing only the briefest hint 
of the essential organs of locomotion, which may serve as a 
convenient reference chart to the general features of the subject 
under discussion. 

Speaking first of the external structure of the foot alone, 
the parts with which the farrier has to deal, are the wall, sole, 
bars and frog, all well enough known by name, but less familiar 
in their relations with other parts and the mode of their co- 
operation. 

The hoof is composed of horny, hair-like fibers, closely matted 
together and forms the natural protection of the sensitive foot. 

The wall is that part of the hoof visible when the foot rests 
naturally on the ground, and is the main factor in bearing the 
horse's weight. 

The bars are a continuation of the wall forming the angles 
at the heel, and assist in the lateral expansion and oppose con- 
traction of the heels and quarters. 

The sole is contained within the lower margin of the wall, 
and is a concaved plate of flexible horn covering the ground sur- 
face of the foot. 

The frog forms the back part of the sole between the bars, 
and is the natural bufier of the foot for the prevention of injury 
and jar to the limb. 

The wall grows indefinitely, but the sole and frog naturally 
throw oflt" flakes or scales when they have grown to a certain 
thickness and are essential in their entirety for the maintenance 



PRACTICAL HORSESHOEING. 73 

of the foot in health and its protection from injury. The hoof 
incloses the coffin-bone, which is the terminal bone of the leg. 
To this bone are attached the principal tendons that bend 
and thrust the foot forward, and to it also grow the tough but 
tender, leafy tissues which dovetail into horny ridges on the 
wall; these attachments being technically called the sensitive 
and insensitive laminte. These leafy tissues working together, 
carry the stress of weight with an elastic movement, their vari- 
ation, under pressure and without, being found to be about one 
quarter of an inch. The result is a wonderful elastic spring be- 
tween the end of the leg and the external hoof, and this with 
the springy action of the coronary and frog cushions and lateral 
cartilages, acting together with the expansion of the arched 
bars — all being compressible under pressure — is the wise provi- 
sion of nature to ward off and minimize the concussion on a 
horse's foot in motion. 

The Center of Gravity.— Having reached this point, let 
us observe the going as well as the external and internal struct- 
ure of a horse's foot. The horse then who draws presses first 
on the toe, then successively on the sides to ease the toe, then 
upon the heel, from which it immediately rises again. Trot- 
ting and running horses press the toe relatively lighter, landing 
first upon the heel, but in either case the effort of the weight 
of the horses fixes the real point of support neither upon the 
heel or toe, but on the middle or ball of the foot— between 
both, where is located the center of gravity, which is easy to 
demonstrate anatomically: thus, the cannon-bone presses on the 
head of the upper pastern, this on the lower pastern, this again 
on the navicular and coffin-bones, the center from where it is 
projected upon the ground bearings of the hoof without. In a 
sound and healthy organization, the succession of rapid move- 
ments of the living animal, adducts or shifts the center of grav- 
ity toward and through the median line or center of the heads 



74 SCIENTIFIC HORSESHOEING. 

of the coffin-, pastern-, and fetlock joints, in a smooth, even, 
and equally-balanced movement, and the function of locomotion 
is performed with perfect and efficient activity. But let any 
change or irregularity, however slight or obscure, occur among 
the elements of the case, whether in the relations of co-opera- 
ting parts, or of form, dimension and location of foot bearings, 
whereby certain parts of a limb are forced to accept the portion 
of the weight which belongs to others; in short, whatever tends 
to defeat the purpose of nature in organizing the locomotory 
apparatus by interfering with or misdirecting its normal move- 
ment will ultimately result in that loss of harmony and lack of 
balance betrayed by disabled functions and testified by lameness. 

Emphasizing the Facts. — In thus digressing it is only to 
establish certain primary facts relating to the main subject, in 
the hope of drawing attention to the necessity of every horse- 
man and farrier clearly comprehending this branch of it be- 
fore entering upon its sequel — the preparation of the foot for 
the shoe — in order to prove that without it as a foundation 
upon which to rest the whole modus operaiidi, and as a final 
resource to fall back upon in all cases where accurate judgment 
is required, there can be no permanently favorable results 
secured from any treatment instituted, howsoever skillful or 
experienced the operator may otherwise be. The value of 
appreciating this and of knowing the natural formation of the 
foot, is, practically to know when the foot is losing that natural 
form, so that it may be shaped -and shod to assist nature in re- 
storing it. How, then, shall we shoe a horse to preserve intact 
the normal conditions of the feet and legs, so as to affiDrd them 
the necessary protection in the performance of their varied func- 
tions under the most exacting conditions which civilization can 
impose, enabling all to act together in perfect harmony and 
with absolute efficiency ? 



PRACTICAL HORSESHOEING. lo 

Variation of Feet. — From the natural form of the hoof we 
perceive that it descends obliquely outward, whereby it becomes 
considerably broader at its basis than at the coronet ; it also de- 
clines in height toward the heel, and this change of contour, 
together with the changes of growth, aftects its size and the degree 
of obliquity in its various parts. Too much importance can not 
possibly be attached by the workman to this variation, for it is of 
the first importance to discriminate accurately and determine pos- 
itively the normal and abnormal positions of the limb. It fre- 
quently becomes exceedingly difficult to do this, owing to the 
close similarity between the natural and unnatural positions exist- 
ing in horses of difi'erent breeds, and to do it satisfactorily will 
often require the exercise of the closest scrutiny and draw upon 
all the resources of experience, sound judgment, and anatomical 
knowledge. Horses' feet are alike in their anatomical combina- 
tion, but they differ in conformation, condition, and size, and 
what will suffice to level and balance one horse will have no 
satisfactory effect on others. 

The Angle of Incidence. — But in a majority of cases the 
solution of this first problem relating to the correct fall of the 
angle of incidence may be easily obtained by carefully observing 
the outlines of the pasterns, and closely noting the motion of 
the whole extremity and especially of the joints. Sometimes 
the overgrowth in length of toe or heel is too distinctly evi- 
dent to admit of error, but in every instance the shoer must not 
fail to make the foot the subject of a thorough and intelligent 
examination, for upon his decision as to its natural position and 
the succeeding step, namely, leveling the ground surface of the 
hoof so that its angle will conform exactly to the inclination of 
the pasterns, is where the art of farriery comes in. 

What Rule to go by. — It would be misleading to lay 
down any arbitrary degree of obliquity, as it naturally varies 



76 SCIENTIFIC HOESESHOEING. 

more or less in almost every individual horse, short pastern 
liorses standing at a greater angle than those with long pasterns, 
and hind feet more than the fore ; hence, the natural bias of the 
superimposed structures is the only safe guide to follow. 

How to get on in the Work. — As the slightest departure 
from exactitude here renders whatever amount of care that may 
"be devoted to the completion of the work worse than useless, and 
as every one knows that accurate leveling can not be done by 
the unaided eye, mechanical means must be resorted to for the 
purpose, and a scientific leveler and compass should therefor 
form part of every farrier's outfit. 

Farriers' Tools. — All the world over, the simplicity and 
fewness of farriers' tools, have from the beginning, marked the 
slow progress of his invaluable art. The buttress, the knife, the 
clinch cutter, the hammer and the pinchers have comprised his 
"kit" of tools, and these as a general thing of rude or inferior 
construction ; latterly, however, they are of better design and 
material, and more effective in use. But now, to be up with the 
spirit of the times, the shoeing smith needs more scientific tools 
for expert workmanship in leveling and adjusting the angles of 
the foot, to secure that precision and perfection imperatively de- 
manded, and to supply this long felt want I am performing a 
duty which needs no other words of explanation in referring my 
readers to the " Russell Foot Adjuster," a description of which 
is inserted here with directions and illustrations for its practical 
use, as a preliminary guide to the subject proper, and which 
will follow after in due order of place and connection. 



PRACTICAL HORSESHOEING. 77 

RUSSELL'S SCIENTIFIC FOOT ADJUSTER. 

HOW TO USE IT IN ACCURATELY LEVELING AND BALANCING THE FOOT WHEN 
PREPARING IT FOR THE SHOE. 

This device is very simple and effective, consisting of a flat 
metallic rim or bed-plate, similar in form to an ordinary horse- 
shoe, to which is pivoted at the center of toe a movable quad- 
rant (the quarter of a circle), the arc of which is graduated or 
divided into 90 degrees, from the horizontal plane to the right 
angle of the segment above, and which is operated by means of 
a lever, working the sweep of the quadrant forward and back. 

A stationary indicator is also fixed perpendicularly to the 
toe of bed-plate, and this registers the angles of the foot upon 
the surface of the quadrant when the lever is brought forward 
against the wall of the hoof. The lever is also marked to a scale 
of inches and fractional parts, so that the height or depth of 
wall is obtained at the same time with its degree of obliquity. 

The Adjuster Applied. — This arrangement is best shown by 
the accompanying illustrations of the adjuster in position for use. 

Fig. 16. H, n, upper surface of the bed plate of the ad- 
juster (with quadrant projecting in front). 

Fig. 17. Side view of foot with adjuster applied to toe.. 

A, A, rim of bed plate pressed firmly against bottom of hoof.. 

B, B, lever for moving the quadrant and measuring height of 
wall. C, stationary indicator registering the angular face of the 
wall. D, arc of the quadrant inscribed with degrees as shown. 

Fig. 18. Front of foot with adjuster abreast of the quarter. 

Fig. 19. Adjuster registering the angle of quarter as seen 
from the back of foot. 

Fig. 20. Leveling-plate to be used in connection with foot 
adjuster. 

Other Mechanical Aids. — Fig. 21. Compass for spanning 
and ascertaining the exact height of the wall at different points,, 
necessary in leveling and equalizing same. 



78 SCIENTIFIC HORSESHOEING. 

In addition to these instruments every farrier should be pro- 
vided with a metal rule having a scale of about 6 inches, and 
also a short narrow tape line (18 to 24 inches long) ; the special 
uses of which will be made apparent in the explanations to 
follow. 

Method of Procedure. — Fig. 22 shows the uplifted foot in 
proper position for handling and examining it while applying 
the adjuster and testing the angles at diflt'erent parts, as well as 
afterward, when viewing its levels and proving its balances. 

With the foot in this suspended position, we begin the oper- 
ation of scientifically leveling and balancing it, by starting a 
line through center of frog-cleft and carrying it forward over 
the point to center of toe at base of hoof, dividing the foot from 
front to back in two equal halves. See Fig. 23, line A, B, B. 

Mark the point at base of toe (with chalk), then, with a tape 
line, measure the circuit of the hoof round the top border at 
coronet (just below the hair), and starting again at frog-cleft, as 
the center of operations, measure half way round the coronet 
from both inner and outer sides, and mark point of meeting at 
top of wall in front, then draw line from point at base to point 
at top, and you will have the center or median plane of foot and 
leg as shown by line H, H, in Fig. 18. 

Now, with the foot still in hand, take up the adjuster and 
press the bed-plate firmly against the bottom of the foot and 
turn the lever down until it rests upon the front toe of wall, as 
shown in Fig. 17, and observe whether or no the angle of the 
toe corresponds with the normal slope of the pastern, also if the 
wall lines up with the straight edge of the lever, evenly and 
truly from base to coronet. The first consideration is that the 
obliquity or angle of the toe should be the same as that of the 
ankle above, and the second is that any abnormal growth or 
variation in length, convexity, or concavity, should be reduced 
to a normal or healthy form, according to the principles subse- 



PEACTICAL HORSESHOEING. 79 

quently laid down for that purpose ; and by this process of ad- 
justment every shoer ought to succeed in obtaining a clew to 
the solution of the first problem in farriery, namely, how to 
secure and preserve a perfect level and balance in the foot. 

Next, measure oft' about 1| or 2 inches on each side of front 
toe at base of hoof and mark same, then draw a line from each 
of these points to connect with the top of line in middle, to in- 
dicate the bearings of the inner and outer sides of toe, as shown 
in Fig. 18, lines E, E. 

After properly noting the foregoing, we may, from thence, the 
more easily reach our conclusions touching the other parts of the 
hoof to which the same proceeding applies, that is, in the use 
of the adjuster on both inner and outer quarters, carefully ob- 
serving the angle of each and the line of the wall that one side 
may be made uniform with the other side in height and degree 
of obliquity. 

Next, let the foot down to stand naturally on the leveling 
plate. Fig. 20, and view it from all sides, to properly gauge and 
determine its best natural position ; then, with the compass. Fig. 
21, divide the space between the line E and the heel of hoof 
into two equal parts, and mark the points at base and at coronet 
and draw a line to connect same as shown by letter F, Fig. 17. 
This is to be done on both sides of quarters, and then, in the 
same way on both sides of the heel as shown by letters A, B, 
Fig. 19. ■ 

These lines are next to be accurately measured with com- 
pass from coronet to base of hoof, or to face of leveling plate 
on which it rests, and the two opposite lines at inner and outer 
sides of toe, quarters and heels, made to compare and agree by 
marking any inequality existing and paring the hoof level round 
the circuit of the wall as directed in a succeeding page and as 
shown in Fig. 23. 

This is always to be done with reference to the normal 
slope of the pasterns and to having the front line of hoof incline 



80 SCIENTIFIC HORSESHOEING. 

on the same angle with them, which can be easily verified at 
any stage of the work by the use of the adjuster, with or with- 
out the assistance of the leveling plate. 

When this is done with one foot, the same method of pro- 
cedure with each of the other feet will enable the smith to bring 
them into precisely the same good form ; his work will also be 
done on true scientific principles beyond the criticism of his 
most exacting patron, and must prove a boon to horseflesh 
generally. 

It will, of course, be observed, that the quarters are 
straighter or more upright than the toe (compare Figs. 17 and 
18), and that the degree of obliquity varies in almost every 
horse, ranging from 45 to 56 on front toe of fore feet, and per- 
haps a little more for the hind feet. 

But the main points to be impressed here are, that the 
natural slope of the pasterns is the only safe guide to be followed 
in all cases, and that the two fore feet of the same animal should 
always be alike, and the two hind feet alike, whatever difference 
may exist between them otherwise. In this way the horse will be 
enabled to tread upon feet of the same relative form in the same 
relative way, an advantage to their working in perfect harmony 
over irregular growths and dressings that is simply beyond our 
power to estimate. 

The center line through the leg and middle of heel and 
toe, as shown in each of these figures, represents the exact axi& 
of all normal leg and foot movements. The weight is precipi- 
tated in a direct line downward through the center of the bone& 
and joints until it reaches the fetlock, where it is thrown for- 
ward on the angle of incidence formed by the pasterns and 
cofiin-bone, represented in Fig. 17 by letters G, G. In a well- 
balanced horse, each foot and each part of a foot, combine to 
perform an equal and uniform function, and to carry an even or 
equal portion of weight distributed in the natural way. But 
any unevenness or irregularity of the base of the hoof, which 



PRACTICAL HORSESHOEING. 81 

is the final point of application, will displace the physical bal- 
ance, and a single alteration in the proper balancing of the body 
will result in a complication of foot disorders which may bafile 
the best skill to remedy, and leave our burden-bearing servants 
to succumb to their inevitable fate. Hence the benefits to be 
derived from the use of these instruments will be apparent to 
all practical shoers. Instruments of similar intent and purpose 
are used by mechanics in every trade, even when not dealing 
with vital, living structures, as is the case in this pursuit, where 
any deviation from absolute accuracy causes suffering and un- 
relieved distress. 

Dififerent kinds of Feet. — I have previously indicated that 
a horse's hoofs may, by variation of growth or usage, be either 
perfect or imperfect, and these last may also be rugged, long, 
crooked or flat, and the frogs may be broad or the heels narrow, 
and I have pointed out the necessity of paying due regard to 
each of these conditions in determining the natural form and 
size of the particular kind of foot being dealt with, also to the 
employment of all the farrier's care and address in bringing it 
to its best form, as there are many apparently trifling circum- 
stances which have much to do with the conditions of orderly 
soundness and efiicient activity which are too often overlooked. 

The Natural Model. — If we examine the natural healthy 

feet of many horses, we will find that their essential shape is 

the same. Some may have grown more luxuriantly than others, 

it is true, whereby the crust will be deeper, or the bottom part 

may be worn and battered, giving the hoof an uneven, ragged 

appearance ; but when this superfluous or broken horn has been 

removed, it will be found that the bottom of the foot is nearly 

circular, the sole concave, the frog broad, the bars distinct, the 

commissures deep and the heels expanded. Surely no one will 

dispute that this form, which the Creator has given, is the most 
6 



82 SCIENTIFIC HORSESHOEING. 

perfect and far better adapted to all purposes than any that can 
be given by the most ingenious farrier 

Rational Shoeing. — When, therefore, we undertake to 
get a horse's foot into condition, this rule may be invariably de- 
pended upon, that any mode of shoeing and treating the foot 
which has a tendency to alter the form or design of nature is 
highly absurd and destructive, while that practice which best 
tends to the conservation of its natural uses is alone founded 
upon sound and rational principles. 

Fig. 23 shows a natural, healthy hoof properly prepared for 
the shoe, and clearly indicates the only parts which should be 
reduced when a foot is being made ready. 

Fig. 24 shows the upper surface of the same hoof with 
longitudinal and tranverse lines, indicating the proper balance of 
a level foot and the normal center of gravity at intersecting 
point. 

Fundamental Principles. — It may be accepted as a guid- 
ing principle that in a natural healthy foot, the outside rim of 
the horny wall and that small portion of the sole immediately 
attached to it on which the shoe is to rest, are the only portions 
of the foot to be interfered with in preparing the foot for the 
shoe, and, whenever possible, the necessary trimming ought to 
be effected by means of the rasp. Conditional exceptions to 
this general rule are, of course, to be fully noted in my observa- 
tions hereafter, on shoeing different kinds of horses, and in the 
treatment of diseases. Natural physical conditions are alone 
treated of in this section. 

The feet must be placed upon the same plane and in pro- 
portion to the skill displayed in this alignment, will danger of 
injury be avoided, as the smallest deviation from a perfectly 
level bearing entails disastrous consequences, not only on the 
foot but on the entire limb. 



PRACTICAL HORSESHOEING. 83 

Securing the Levels. — In the foot itself, when the weight 
is borne unevenly, the lowest part receives an undue share ; the 
pressure retards the growth and free play of the parts, and the 
foot in consequence, becomes, weakened distorted and deformed. 
In the limb, deflected as it is by an uneven basis, from the 
ground surface to its union with the trunk, the incidence of the 
weight is imposed unequally, and bones and tendons mutually 
sufi'er from the strain. 

The wall, then, must be perfectly level, that is, no more is 
to be taken from one side than from the other, and this is deter- 
mined by exact measurements with compass at opposite points 
all around the hoof, indicated by the lines in Fig. 23, from cor- 
onet to ground surface, and having same agree. Details are 
fully given in connection with the use of the foot adjuster, for 
which see Fig. 17. 

Maintaining the Balance. — Also the foot must be bal- 
anced, or in other words, from a line drawn through the longer 
axis of the frog the measurements to opposite points should be 
the same on both sides of the hoof; this means simply that a 
longitudinal line through the center of the frog, must at all 
points, be the center of the foot or divide it in exact halves, as 
in this way only will the force of the foot-fall be carried through 
the center of the column of bones and be equally and naturally 
distributed upon the supporting apparatus of bones and ten- 
dons and the weight-bearing portions of the hoof. The active 
principle of this indispensable arrangement is best illustrated in 
Figs. 25 and 26, and is explained with the use of instruments 
in Fig. 17. 

Preparing the Hoof. — In thus leveling and balancing the 
foot, my practice is to remove only such portions of the sole as 
nature is about to cast off, that is, those portions which are ex- 



84 SCIENTIFIC HORSESHOEING. 

foliating and destitute of the natural moisture and flexibility 
that exist in a healthy growth, and then to reduce the wall to a 
level with the untouched, healthy or sound sole. I aim to have 
every part of the wall, from the angle of the heels to the toe, 
receive a good, broad, equal bearing on the shoe, unless there is 
some special reason for doing otherwise. With some feet, hav- 
ing a strong healthy growth, this means a great deal of cutting 
(especially if shoes have been worn, and worn a long time) ; then, 
again, there are feet w^iich require very little reduction, hence, 
the work must be done with constant and intelligent reference 
to the inclination of the pasterns as already prescribed. Some- 
times the hoof will grow all to toe, and again the growth at the 
heel will be more marked, or the foot may be run over by hav- 
ing one side too high or the toe worn oft" excessively. To rectify 
this, and to better its adjustment a good plan is to look at the 
old shoe to see where it has worn most and be partly guided by 
that. The point is to remove so much- of the wall as would be 
a surplus growth, or so much only as will bring it back to its 
natural form and adjustment. And this after all must depend 
upon the judgment, expertness, and ingenuity of the farrier, who 
should, how^ever, never lose sight of the fact that if the heels are 
allowed to grow too high, an excessive strain is thrown upon the 
bones, while if the toes are too long the tendons sufter in like 
manner. The sharp lower rim of the wall should be rounded- 
off just a little to prevent splinters, and of course all stubs or 
nails should be removed. 

Opening up the Heels. — The junction of the wall with 
the bars aftbrds a firm natural bearing for the heel of the shoe, 
and is to be rasped level with the wall and so low as to be ex- 
actly even w^ith the frog, but the so-called process of "opening 
up the heels " by removing the bars, is a most disastrous practice, 
to be strictly avoided. The bars are the lateral braces and bind- 
ers of the foot, and the arch which they form on either side 



PRACTICAL HORSESHOEING. 85, 

admirably fits them to admit and limit, to a proper extent, the 
expansion of the foot, as well as to powerfully oppose any dis- 
position there may be in the hoof to contract, by assisting the 
heels in retaining their natural form. 

Indefensible Practices. — There may be difierences of opin- 
ion among authorities as to minor details in shoeing, but there 
is one practice not open to argument, and which all alike se- 
verely condemn, and that is the utterly senseless and atrocious 
custom so characteristic of the common every-day horseshoer, 
of thinning out the sole and trimming or mutilating the frog. 
No man has ever been able to assign a reason for acting contrary 
to the first principles of his own work by destroying that which 
he is aiming to preserve, and yet this has been and is the most 
frequent procedure of so-called farriers in their treatment of the 
frog and sole. They persist, with an obstinacy which sets com- 
mon sense at defiance, in paring and hollowing out the sole even 
to the quick, and to forming an exact " fine frog," regardless of 
consequences, though these are of the most serious nature and 
affect the vital integrity of the living animal. 

Thinning out the Sole. — From the connection, thickness 
and flexibility of the horny sole, as well as from its arch-like 
external contour, it is wholly destined by nature to serve as a 
cushion to the sensitive sole (velvety tissue) which rests upon it. 
By hollowing away the sole in paring, it dries and shrinks by 
exposure ; the horse loses his natural defense against violent 
shocks of a pavement, or any kind of external violence, and 
thus the sensitive sole becomes easily inflamed by being bruised 
or wounded (disease called villitis). 

Trimming the Frog. — The horny frog is also designed for 
contact with the ground for the prevention of jar and injury to 
the limb, and the presence of this thick, elastic, compressible 



86 SCIENTIFIC HORSESHOEING. 

mass of horn in a healthy unmutilated condition, permitted to 
reach the ground (while the animal is moving, at least), is abso- 
lutely essential to the well-being of the foot, the more especially 
if high speed is desired. The frog is nature's cushion and hoof 
expander (in connection with the bars), and to alter this state is 
fatal to its usefulness, for such act causes it to shrink, dry and 
harden, when, both as a cushion and expander it is a dead flat 
failure. The frog is also the main support to the plantar cush- 
ion, which in turn supports the back tendons, so that without 
its natural pressure the tendons soon become jaded, inflamed and 
swollen, and it is thus a main factor of safety in traveling or 
riding. 

Neither the frog or sole ever become too large or thick by 
natural growth or usage, for they scale or cast off flakes as they 
pass beyond the life maintaining stage of the producing tissues, 
and a certain degree of exposure is required for their vitality 
and resiliency. In cases of existing disease, where resort to the 
drawing-knife may be required to relieve or assist the affected 
parts, I plainly treat of such in the subsequent pages ; but in 
normal conditions the sole and frog should, on no pretext ^^hat- 
ever, be disturbed by the shoer. 

Weight of the Shoe, — Two things must be strenuously in- 
sisted on for the shoe ; one is, that the shoe be as light as possible, 
and the other is, that it be made or moulded on its foot-bearing 
surface to an exact counterpart of the hoof to which it is ap- 
plied. Bearing in mind that the original and legitimate design 
of the shoe is for the preservation and defense of the hoof from 
undue wear, we should not misconcieve this purpose by attaching 
to our horses' feet any uncalled-for weight. Light shoes pro- 
portioned to the weight of the animal and the nature of his 
work, are infinitely preferable to heavy ones, for these latter are 
a burden at best and a constant tax on the energies of a horse, 
as is meaningly implied by the familiar saying "that an ounce 



PRACTICAL HORSESHOEING. 87 

at the toe means a pound at the withers." It is not surprising 
to those conversant with the facts that the majority of our horses 
are at the decadence of their powers when they should be at 
their prime, and a prolific source of such disability is the habit- 
ual necessity of pounding along on hard roads, with over- 
weighted, iron-clad feet, ensuing from the conventional mode of 
shoeing. 

Calculating that a horse going a fair trot lifts his feet all 
round sixty times a minute, and this with shoes weighing two 
pounds each, the reader will be able to realize how enormous the 
amount is that can be unnecessarily raised to the wear and tear 
of the living members. 

As an example, suppose a horse shod with shoes weighing 
two pounds each and traveling at such a jog as requires him to 
lift his feet all around once in a second or sixty times a minute, 
keeps up his speed for five hours, how much work does he per- 
form — that is, how much does he lift? 

Lifting one foot sixty times a minute ; for four feet, 60 X 
4 = 240. Lifting two pounds each time, in one minute he will 
lift 480 pounds, which, multiplied by 60, will make in one hour 
28,800 pounds, and in five hours, 144,000 pounds, or 72 tons. 
This calculation is based upon the scientific experiments of 
Mons. Bouley, of France. 

The injury of artificial or excessive weight carried at the 
extremities of a horse's limbs is always increased as the rate of 
speed increases. But even for our heaviest draft horses it is not 
necessary to increase the concussion and battering, inseparable 
from their bulk, by an aggravation of several pounds of metal 
on each foot when an equal or greater advantage is to be found 
in shoes weighing only half as much : and one may well be ex- 
cused for wondering why horse owners do not deal with this 
issue as one of self interest. 



88 SCIENTIFIC HORSESHOEING. 

Form of the Shoe, — The shoe should have a perfectly 
level, wall-bearing surface ; but to mellow and soften any pres- 
sure on the sole which has a certain amount of descent under 
the exertions of progression, the plane of the shoe should be 
concaved or beveled off inwardly, as shown in Fig. 27. 

The web of the shoe should be fashioned substantially, but 
not unduly wide. Narrow-webbed shoes are eminently the best, 
as they do not obstruct the growth of the sole, nor interfere 
with its natural strength and flexibility. 

Setting the Shoe. — It is a common thing for writers to 
admonish that " the shoe must be fitted to the foot, and not the 
foot to the shoe," and it would seem an unnecessary caution 
were it not a fact that the average farrier only partially prepares 
the foot at first, leaving the remainder of the work to be done 
after he has fitted the shoe — to his eye. Any inequalities or 
deficiencies then in the shoe are either burned into the hoof or 
it is rasped off and made, somehow or other, to conform to the 
size and shape of the shoe. I need hardly add that this practice 
is wrong, and that the outcome of it is pernicious in the ex- 
treme. 

Hot and Cold Fitting. — Burning a badly or even well-ad- 
justed shoe, to a badly or well-prepared foot, is injurious, and is 
to be deprecated under the most favorable circumstances, but 
the fusing of a red-hot shoe to the foot surface, as is generally 
practiced, can not be too severely condemned. Burning the 
sole will, in time, overheat, blister, and destroy the laminated 
and membraneous structures of the foot, causing lameness or 
intense pain, and often suppuration and lesion of the living tis- 
sues. The horn secreting tissues of the hoof under these cir- 
cumstances are impaired or suspended, and when closely exam- 
ined show an absence of the cohesive matter which unites the 
healthy fibers, which thus disintegrate and become hard, dry 



PRACTICAL HORSESHOEING. 89 

and brittle. The advocates of hot-fitting though, present 
many specious arguments, for the furtherance of the practice. 
It is alleged that shoes can not be fitted so rapidly nor so closely 
by any other means, and this is generally true, for, by burning 
the shoes on, an accommodation is forced between the hoof and 
the shoe, and accuracy is thus secured, but at the expense of 
the right growth and operation of the foot, and any one who is 
a practical shoer, with any knowledge of anatomy, knows, with- 
out being told, that " mild and careful " work in hot-fitting is 
rare among workmen, while its indiscriminate and excessive 
use is a matter of every-day occurrence. Horn, being a non- 
conductor of heat, is slowing afiected by it, and it is claimed that 
three minutes burning of the lower face of the sole is necessary to 
produce any indication of increase of temperature on its upper 
surface. This is a fallacy, as I have tested and proven many 
times, by operating upon and dissecting green specimens with 
soles of varied thicknesses, when by the application of hot shoes 
for the specified time, I found that the soles of ordinary depth 
were penetrated by the heat and the sensitive sole scorched and 
the laminal tissues burned and charred. In the living subject 
these efi'ects would have been disastrous, and they convinced me 
(if that were necessary) that the foot of a horse is in no sense to 
be compared to an inanimate block of wood which may be 
carved or charred at man's unholy will, or to suit his capricious 
whims. 

And because it is a vital organ filled with life and feeling, 
the necessity which there is of thought, care and skill being ex- 
ercised in our treatment of it, is pointed out to us by the most 
indubitable evidences of nature. The economy of time and 
labor attained in the process of hot-fitting will, I am sure, never 
counterbalance its evil efiects. While it is probably true that 
more shoes can be fitted in a given time by hot-fitting than by 
cold, that is no argument in favor of its expediency, for it fol- 
lows as a logical sequence to be applied here, that it is the con- 



90 SCIENTIFIC HORSESHOEING. 

sistent business of the shoer always, to give form to the surface 
of the foot as well as to the shoe, and that the final test of skill 
and intelligence is in the best adaptation of one to the other, so 
that the least possible hurt shall be done to the foot. 

Fig. 28 illustrates the correct way of fitting a shoe, with 
proper length at toe and heel, with foot leveled and balanced, and 
front of wall in line with the natural inclination of the ankle 
from toe to fetlock, all as clearly defined in the section on the 
use of the adjuster. (See page 77.) 

Whenever the face of front toe does not line out full and 
straight from coronet to ground surface by reason of deficient 
growth, excessive wear, or paring down, the shoe should be 
made to cover out in front to the line of the natural tread, and 
thus supply the deficiency of the hoof. Also, where a quick 
going over of the toe is desired, let the shoe supply the same 
by being rolled or beveled on the ground surface instead of 
shortening up the toe of the hoof, as is so frequently done. 

Adaptation of the Shoe. — From this manner of setting, 
it may be observed that dangerous compressions will be avoided 
and the shoe rendered more secure by having it conform to the 
ground tread of the foot, and by having the nails placed in the 
quarters, three on each side (directly opposite) being suflicient. 
In effect, the more easy the shoes set upon the feet the more 
active the horse will be. So large, long, thick shoes make him 
heavy, unwieldy, and hobbling. A long, wide shoe is preca- 
rious, for the longer the lever the greater will be the drag upon 
the clinches of the nails, and thus horses will' be more apt to 
trip and strike them off. The body of the shoe being unyield- 
ing, the flexibility of the hoof yields to the shoe heel, and the 
thicker the shoe is and the more it covers the sole, all the more 
subject is that of the horse to meet it, thus weakening the fet- 
locks and heels by compressing them as if in a constant vise, 
because they have always the same inflexible point of support. 



PRACTICAL HORSKSHOEING. 91 

Hence, we learn that the shoe must be made uniform with the 
spread of the hoof, and perfectly plain or flat in its actual bear- 
ings, in order to adapt it to a close, even seat all around ; not too 
thick or wide (varying, however, to suit the necessities of the 
case, for a medium-sized horse being about f inch thick by f 
inch wide), nor projecting beyond the natural circuit of the 
ground tread. After securing a perfect adaptation of the shoe 
to the foot, the two levels to fit each facing, do not spoil the job 
by going back to the anvil, as many do, and give it another final 
hammering, thus altering the foot surface of the shoe and caus- 
ing a misfit at the last. 

Fullering and Punching. — Nail holes should be punched 
through the shoe straight, or inclining slightly outward, directly 
opposite one another (except in cases where otherwise directed), 
that all danger of cramping the foot may be avoided when the 
nails are driven. The fullering and punching should not be too 
fine, that is, too near the outside of the shoe, but suitable for 
the size of the nails, so that they may enter and fill the same, as 
then they will stand sure and endure longer. If punched 
coarser, a stronger and better hold may be taken in the wall, 
and the nails need not be driven up so high as to prick or en- 
danger the sensitive structure. 

Concerning the Nails. — Never use inferior nails, for they 
invariably break oft' or bend upon slight occasions, and the 
shoe will work loose from the foot, or be quickly lost. A 
good nail should have a strong, stiff" neck and shoulder, flat, 
thin shank, and sharp point, without hoUowness or flaw. A 
low, short, thick hold for the nail is better both for the ease of 
the foot and the security of the shoe. Two of the most common 
evils in shoeing are using too many and too large nails, and then 
driving them up too high in the wall. The fewest and smallest 
nails that will insure the shoe remaining on for a reasonable 



92 SCIENTIFIC HORSESHOEING. 

length of time, is a rule that should never be departed from.. 
For if a perfectly level bearing has been obtained, as ought to- 
be the case if my directions are follovi^ed, only a few small 
nails will be required to hold the shoe securely in place. 

Fig. 29 shows a full-size, transverse section of a hoof, with 
shoe fitted and nails properly driven, to pass obliquely out 
through the strong, thick part of the wall, away from the 
cavity occupied by the sensitive structures of the foot. 

Driving the Nails. — As much care is required in the final 
adjustment of the shoe to set it right and fit the foot equally in 
all places, the two middle or quarter-nails should be driven first,, 
with a few soft strokes of a light hammer, till they are some- 
what entered ; then see that the shoe fits the outer lines of the 
hoof evenly and justly, on one side the same as on the other, and 
that the tread is square and straight. Otherwise, either one or 
both of the operations— of leveling the foot and fitting or 
adapting the shoe — may be set at naught by a failure to nail 
the shoe on in its proper place. "When this is done, let the 
rest of the nails be driven so that their points stand out in 
line ; then cut them off and clinch them, turning the clinches 
down with the angle of the hoof and hiding them a little by 
filing or rasping the wall slightly underneath the clinches before 
laying them down. 

The Finished Work. — The shoer's work is now supposed 
to be completed, and he must know when to stop. He must not,, 
therefore, give any "finishing touches" to the hoof by rasping- 
ofi:' the outer crust of the wall, in order to make it seem round 
about the shoe. An ever-beneficent nature has provided for the 
entire wall from the coronet to the base a fine film of natural 
horny varnish — the periople — which is necessary for its protec- 
tion and perfect growth. By robbing it of this proper horny 
coating, the farrier inflicts an injury on the foot beyond the 



PRACTICAL HORSESHOEING. 93 

reach of art to imitate or repair. Hoof dressings and other oilj 
preparations can not replace the loss of this natural healtbj, 
flossy layer, and their use to polish the hoof is detrimental to 
the growth or development of the horny tissues. 

Gizes of Commercial Nails, with Recommendations for 
their Various Uses. 

'No. 2. For plating running horses and colts. 

3. For " training shoes" on running horses. 

4. For the track horse. 
4|. For the roadster. 

5. For the roadster. 

6. For general business and hack horses. 

7. For omnibus and stage horses. 

8. For light draught horses. 

9. For heavy draught horses. 
For the heavier breeds of draught horses, such as the 

Norman, wearing extra heavy shoes (from 6 to 8 
pounds), for which extra long nails are required. 



94 



SCIENTIFIC horsp:shoeing. 



\ 




PRACTICAL HORSESHOEING. 



95 




Fig. 19. 



W5? RUSSELL5 
FOOT LEVELING PLATE 
6 INCHES SQUARE 



Fig. 20. 




Fig. 21. 



96 



SCIENTIFIC HORSESHOEING. 




Fig. 22. position of foot, uplifted, in 

THE most convenient WAY FOR HOLDING 
SAME IN OBTAINING LEVELS, ASCERTAINING 
ITS GRADATIONS AND DULY PROPORTIONING 
IT BEFORE SHOEING. 



A, A, Wall-bearing surface leveled 
and prepared for the shoe. 

B, Cleft of frog, marking line 
through center of heels to middle 
of toe. 

C, D, C, D, Heels leveled and 
equalized from coronet to ground 
surface. 

E, E, The wall leveled and lined 
up equallj' from coronet to base op- 
posite the quarters. 

P, P, Coronet level from upper 
border to base at each side of heel. 

G, G, Dotted line showing how 
one side of the heel may be twisted 
out of its proper position by an un- 
equal bearing of the foot, produced 
by uneven wall (high or low on 
either side), and improper shoeing. 



Any overgrowth of hoof will displace the natural balance 
of the horse and cause him to dispose his feet in or out, or 
carry his legs forward or back in the direction of the greatest 
bearing point, while with feet leveled and balanced, as they 
should be, he will stand correctly and move with ease and com- 
fort all the time. 



PEACTICAL HORSESHOEING. 



97 




Fig. 23. showing under surface of 
a perfect front hoof properly pre- 
pared for the shoe, with guide lines 
for leveling and balancing the foot. 



A, Center of frog cleft in line 
with the insertions of front and 
back tendons, and parallel to their 
straight line of movement. B, B, 
Line through longitudinal center 
of foot, dividing it into exact 
halves and indicating middle of 
heels and front toe. C, C, Line 
transversely across center of foot, 
midway through inside and out- 
side quarters. The point of inter- 
section of these lines indicates the 
normal center of gravity. D, D, 
D, D, Intersecting lines marking 
the width of inside and outside 
toes and heels. E, E, Branches 
or forks of the frog on either side 
of the median cleft. F, F, Bars 
on either side of the frog. G, G, 
Commissures or grooves between 
the bars and frog. H, H, H, H, 
Line marking height of heels from 
coronet to base. I, I, Concave 
surface of sole. J, J, J, J, Wall- 
bearing surface leveled and pre- 
pared for the shoe. 



These lines indicate the main points where the wall of the 
hoof is to be measured from the coronet to the lower rim or 
base, in order to obtain equal and exact levels around the entire 
circuit. The height of any two opposite points on either side 
of line B, B, must correspond, that is, the sides of toe and heels 
and quarters must be alike to insure proper levels, and the 
width from the converging center, near point of frog, to any 
radiating point on opposite sides must be equal to secure a per- 
fectly-balanced foot. 



98 



SCIENTIFIC HORSESHOEING. 




Fig. 24. upper surface op a perfect hoof, corresponding with the 
under surface shown in the preceding figure. 

A, Internal ridge or spur of the frog-stay dividing the fissures. 

B, B, Internal fissures, or depressions between the bars and frog, in 
which the plantar cushion finds lodgment. 

C, Internal point of fissures corresponding with external summit of the 
horny frog. 

D, D, Internal surface of the horny sole. 

E, E, External upper face of wall. 

F, F, Dotted line indicating thickness of wall. 

G, G, Transverse line across center of hoof midway through quarters. 
H, H, Longitudinal line through center of hoof marking middle of toe 

and heel. The intersection of these lines locates the normal center of gravity. 

I, I, Upper margin of the coronary band called the periople ring and 
continuing to the skin. 

J, J, Laminar leaves of horny tissue coming out from the internal 
face of the wall and extending over the bars. 



PRACTICAL HORSESHOEING. 



99 








Fig. 25. side view of a perfect pore foot and leg, standing naturally, 

AFTER IT IS leveled AND BALANCED ACCORDING TO DIRECTIONS GIVEN. 

A, A, Front or toe of hoof, lined up with inclination of pastern, at an 
angle of about 50 degrees. B, B, Angle of incidence, through axis of the ter- 
minal bones, and center of foot joints, locating the normal center of equipoise 
at the base. C, C, Line of vertical descent, through axis of leg upon which 
the stress of weight and momentum pass to fetlock and pastern. D, Center 
or pivot of fetlock joint where the stress is imparted or deflected through the 
phalanges of the foot, and thrown out on the bearing surfaces of the hoof. 



100 



SCIENTIFIC HORSESHOEING. 




Fig. 26. transverse section through quarters showing the natural 
back position of front foot standing after being prepared for the shoe 
as instructed. 



A, A, Base or spread of the hoof accurately leveled and balanced. 

B, B, Upper border of hoof showing levels at coronet. 

C, C, Cutigeral groove or cavity in which the coronary cushion rests. 

D, Interior fissure in which the plantar cushion is imbedded. 

E, External projection of summit of horny frog near center of sole. 

F, Pj Vertical line cast through axis of the bony column locating the 
normal center of gravity in a balanced foot. 

G, G, Wall of hoof across the quarters, lined up on both sides, equally 
from coronet to base. 

H, H, Arch of horny sole crowning the ground surface. 



PRACTICAL HORSESHOEING, 



101 




Fig. 27. front foot shoe for general koad or business purposes. 



This shoe may be regarded as a standard pattern for gen- 
eral use, and should be about f in. thick x | in. wide, to weigh 12 
ounces, varying when necessary to suit the horse to which it 
is applied. The above view shows a good flat wall-bearing sur- 
face and the inner rim concaved or beveled to avoid pressure on 
flat, soft, or weak-soled feet. For ordinary driving six nails are 
sufl&cient, three on each side placed opposite each other in the 
quarters as indicated. The shoe should tit the toe and heel and 
follow the circle of the wall neatly, and the ends of the branches 
are to rest strongly on the bars at each side of the heels. The 
ground-bearing surface of this shoe should ordinarily be per- 
fectlv flat. 



102 



SCIENTIFIC HORSESHOEING. 




Fig. 28. natural position of a perfect fore foot on the ground, 
leveled, balanced axd rightly fitted with shoe in accordance with 
the rules laid down. 

This figure shows to advantage the proportions of a symmetrial foot and 
pasterns of right size, length, and slope to give the desired strength, vigor, and 
suppleness. It will be observed that the angle of the hoof at toe and heel are 
continuous with the natural bias of the pastern, and that thus the poise of 
the leg and foot is unconstrained and perfectly adapted to sustain the weight 
and perform the functions of locomotion with ease, comfort and security. 
The shoe is adjusted to the natural-ground tread of the foot following the circuit 
of toe, heel and sides, being affixed with three nails directly opposite one an- 
other on each side. In this way the foot lands evenly, the strain is equally 
distributed between the bones and tendons, the expansion is uniform all 
around, and all danger of foot or leg soreness is entirely avoided. 



PRACTICAL HORSESHOEING. 



103 




Fig. 29. full size, transverse section, through hoof near the heel, 
showing actual thickness of the various parts in a hoof of medium size. 

A, A, Thickness of wall at quarters. 

B, B, External junction of bars and sole at base of wall. 

C, C, C, C, Continuation of bars, overarching and joining themselves to 
the frog and sole. 

D, D, External bulbs of the frog forks divided by the cleft. 

E, Internal frog-stay or spur projecting into the thick part of the plantar 
cushion. 

P, r, Internal fissures divided by the frog-stay, designed to receive the 
plantar cushion. 

G, G, Internal cavities which form the seat of the wings of the coffin-bone. 

H, H, External gaps, called commissures, separating the bars and frog. 

K, K, Cntigeral groove, or cavity, in which the coronary cushion rests. 

S, S, Shoe properly applied on the level bearing provided by the under 
rim of wall, with the nails driven at right inclination to take a strong, short 
hold and come out of the wall with the least injury to its fibers and without 
hurtfully compressing the sensitive structures of the foot. 



The marginal line surrounding the hoof shows its relative 
angles and levels with the rectangular border. 



103a SCIENTIFIC HORSESHOEING. 

Practical Balance of the Foot and Leg. — The principal 
points demanded in the training and development of a perfect 
and sound horse are, for a driving horse speed and endurance, 
and for a draught horse, strength and endurance. How can 
the utmost speed or greatest strength with endurance be best 
attained ? These are the ends aimed at by the skillful and ex- 
perienced farrier, and after the practical experience of a lifetime 
extending beyond the allotted years of man, I ara ready from 
that practical experience, and from my observation of the prac- 
tical experience of others, to give to the world what measure 
of practical knowledge has come to me in the way of the devel- 
opment of speed, or strength, with endurance, of the highest 
class iu the horse. 

In the first place, it is undeniable that the whole value of a 
horse depends primarily and always upon the soundness of the 
feet and legs; and in the second place, upon the skill, compe- 
tency, and good, practical judgment of the farrier. The most 
important thing the farrier should know is that the more equal- 
ity of pressure obtained at all points of the feet and legs, at 
each footfall, the greater will be the speed, or the more efiective 
the strength, with endurance, attained — and this stands to 
reason. There are three very essential points which he should 
bear in mind to attain to these desiderata. First, the farrier 
should know how to obtain accurately the natural angle of the 
foot — that is to say, he should know when to cut and where to 
stop cutting. Such a man is master of his trade. For any 
damage to a horse from a neglect or ignorance in this particular 
can only be repaired by time, which means loss of money to the 
owner, if not lasting injury or death even to the horse. The 
proper preparation of the horse's foot for the shoe is there- 
fore of paramount importance in farriery. The horse's hoof 
corresponds to the human finger nail, and a perfect knowledge 
of the hoof can only be obtained by dissection ; and it is much 
more humane to acquire that knowledge by operating upon the 



PRACTICAL HORSESHOEING. 103^ 

dead subject than upon the living animal, as has frequently 
been done. Any one can attest to the pain and annoyance of 
having the finger nail cut to the quick, and yet our suffering is 
as naught to that of the horse who has undergone the same 
operation. 

Before proceeding to dress the hoof, observations should bo 
taken from in front of as well as the rear of the horse, to ascer- 
tain whether the foot is directly underneath the leg — that is, if 
the center line of the foot is in the same vertical with the leg; 
then from either side take notice of the vertical line, and 
whether the upper and lower pasterns are on a line with the 
front wall of the foot, when the horse stands on a level floor ; 
that is, to see whether the leg tilts in or out. In either case the 
hoof is not level on the ground surface. Equalize by sight as 
acute as possible the wall, and determine how much should be 
removed by the rasp and at what point or points, in order to 
obtain the desired equal bearing on a level surface ; then pro- 
ceed to remove the superfluous horn. In dressing or paring the 
feet, so as to obtain equal heights for the front feet and also for 
the hind feet, the eye can not be trusted. Guesswork must now 
cease ; mathematical accuracy is demanded. This can only be 
obtained by resorting to the use of mathematical instruments, 
and for this purpose the six-inch compass, foot and heel adjust- 
ers, have been invented and adopted (pp. 94 and 95). The 
method of procedure described on pages 77, 78, 79, 80, 81, 
shows the use of the instruments. The front feet being of the 
same length from the top of the coronet to the ground tread, 
and shoes of exactly equal weight being used, the stride of the 
front feet will be of the same length at each footfall when up to 
speed. The correct rule for the angles of the front feet to be 
observed is, when the former stand at an angle of 48 degrees, 
the latter should be at 50 degrees, for the reason that the hind 
legs constitute the propelling powers of the horse. This baa 
been my never-failing rule 



103c SCIEN'TIFIC HORSESHOEING. 

Before going into detailed description of the different con- 
fornaations of feet met with in our daily work, we will assume 
that every animal had perfect feet, or we will take a colt never 
shod, and go with him through life ; and we will also assume 
that it is impossible to adjust a shoe to the horse's foot without 
some injury to that part of his anatomy. Now the duty of the 
farrier is to reduce that injury to a minimum, so that the shoe- 
ing will not shorten the career of the horse or reduce his value. 

The parts of the foot to be carefully observed are the wall, 
sole, frog, and the angle of obliquity of the wall at the toe, 
which varies in different animals. The breed, labor, and also 
the roads on which he works, play an important part, and each 
case must be treated in a different manner. The horse that 
works on the farm will travel sound and show no inconvenience 
with shoes that would lame him on artificial paved streets and 
roads, and again the shoes used in our cities would not answer 
for the agriculturist; the latter are too long, and are liable to 
he pulled off in the soft ground. Be that as it may, the same 
careful preparation of the foot for the shoe should always be 
demanded. Too strict adherence to these rules can not be ob- 
served, to insure sound feet and legs. 

The angle of the wall varies in different animals; what 
that angle should be in each instance must be determined by a 
lateral survey of the foot and leg, so as to have the strain or 
weight equally divided. If the toe is too lung, the flexor ten- 
dons and suspensory ligaments are overtaxed. If the toe is too 
short and the heels are too high, there will be damage done to 
the bones and ligaments of the joints. As a consequence the 
animal will be deprived of that elastic, bounding, graceful foot- 
step, which is so beautiful in the colt, and results from a Avell- 
halanced foot. In removing the horn, as the wall and sole are 
rasped off together, a line of demarcation will present itself 
about three-eighths to one-half an inch from the outer edge of 
the wall. This line shows where the sole abuts; it is united to 



PRACTICAL HORSESHOEING. 103d 

the wall, and is of value as a guarding point, showing how 
much of the crust can be removed with safety. The dividing 
line will show the outer wall thicker at the toe than at the 
quarters or heels; shorten or reduce it by careful manipulation 
of the rasp against the edge of the crust to an equal thickness 
all around with the plantar surface of the foot in view ; then 
turn, and with the hoof placed on the knee, smooth the lower 
edge of the wall, to obtain the desired results. If the foot is 
iDalanced, the weight is equally distributed on the laminated 
tissue. 

Each portion of the anatomical structure bears its share of 
labor and performs the functions nature intended in a rational 
manner. The external portion of the hoof is a modified con- 
tinuation of the outer or scarp skin, with similar functions to 
prevent evaporation of moisture and protect the sensitive struc- 
ture, beneath which, if too much of nature's protecting envelope 
"be removed, a sensitive surface is the result. The outer wall is 
more liable to become hard, dry and brittle, and lose that elastic 
spring, where the shoe, never intended for it by nature, is at- 
tached to the foot. If the foot, as a rule, is kept properly bal- 
anced, we seldom meet with lame horses. 

The frog is composed of spongy horn placed in the center 
of the foot between the bars, beneath the column of bone, and 
when in a healthy condition is very elastic. Its office is to 
break concussion, and under no circumstances, except for a 
surgical operation, should it be touched with a knife. Too 
strict adherence to this rule can not be enforced. Not even the 
rags should be removed; if left alone they will do no injury 
and come ofl' at the proper time. 

The bars are a continuation of the wall, bent at a very 
acute angle, at the heels. They form stays to the quarters and 
should be cut with judgment — that is to say, that portion which 
projects below the solo, especially on heavy draft horses work- 
ing on city pavements. These are more liable to be afflicted 



103e SCIENTIFIC HOKSESHOEING. 

with what is termed broken bars, similar to quarter cracks ; but 
the latter are in the external portions of the hoof, although they 
may penetrate deeply into the soft tissue, often producing lame- 
ness. This sole, like the frog, exfoliates, and when left to na- 
ture the old horn is east off at intervals as the new is strong 
enough to take its place. But when, after the foot has been 
shod, the squamous tissue is protected from wear and held in 
place by the protecting shoe, that dead portion should be re- 
moved; but do not use the knife too freely. The sole should 
be left as strong as possible in perfect feet. 

It goes without saying that the after usefulness of a horse 
depends upon the good judgment and practical experience of 
the farrier shoeing him. It is not a question of how cheap, but 
how good? As the old adage holds: Anything half done is 
not done ; " any thing well done is twice done." 

As to shoeing speed horses, no man can intelligently shoe 
one without seeing him in harness ; and, while standing in 
front, he should watch him as he approaches and passes, and 
notice how he picks up his feet and puts them down on the 
ground. If the horse's motion is level and smooth, his front 
and hind strides will be of the same length ; if he is hitching 
and hopping behind, these strides are unequal. A skillful, 
practical horseshoer can overcome this by close observation. 
Again, the farrier may have properly balanced the feet; but the 
driver can undo all the good done by unbalancing the body in 
checking up the head too high. The fault may not be in the 
shoeing, but with the driver. 

To balance the foot and leg is, tnerefore, the first and all- 
important step, before shoeing. And the work will not be 
complete or well done until they are made to stand directly 
underneath the body, as before enjomed. To neglect this is the 
greatest mistake, from which certainly may result any of the 
diseases which impair the foot and leg, and ultimately, if not at 
once, ruin the horse. 



PKACTICAL HORSESHOEING. 103/" 

The next and equally important pc^ntisto make and fit the 
•shoe to suit the diseased condition of the foot and leg, so when 
the shoe is nailed to the foot the horse will stand with his feet 
and legs naturally under the body. "When this is done, two- 
thirds of the victor}' is gained. I have never seen any disease 
of the foot and leg where there was a permanent cure effected, 
unless the foot and leg were made to stand naturally under the 
body. 

My sole object in getting out the fourth edition of my 
treatise on Scientific Horseshoeing is to give my former as well 
as other patrons the benefit of the new illustrations, showing 
the different diseases to which the feet and legs are subjected. 
As I maintain always, seventy-five per cent of the foot and leg 
diseases are caused from unbalanced feet. 



104 SCIENTIFIC HORSESHOEING. 



CHAPTER Y. 
SHOEING YOUNG HORSES. 

TO BALANCE AND REGULATE ACTION AND GAIT. 

Conditions of Action. — Not to go too deep into the liter- 
ature of the subject, it seems that the walk, trot, and gallop have 
always been the natural gaits common to horses, influenced by 
their environments and the nature of the ground over which 
they traveled. On the other hand, the ingenuity of man has- 
evolved various breeds and given them different phases of ac- 
tion, in order that certain demands not naturally existing, but 
arising in a later day civilization, might be fitted. This shows 
that the quality or characteristic of action is, in a measure, ar- 
tificial, because as soon as the natural necessity for any specified 
gait ceases to exist, the gait ceases with it, unless training by 
man is substituted for the original demand. At the present 
day, therefore, we notice that all breeds of horses are distin- 
guished by some special method of action, which is an essential 
factor in determining the intrinsical and fancy value of any of 
their representatives. The trotter that can not trot, or the 
hackney that can not lift his knees and hocks, is generally an 
unsalable commodity. It would serve no special purpose to go 
more fully into the details of this section. What I am most 
anxious to show is that the natural conditions of the ground 
over which horses must travel should regulate their gaits, and 
that for any given method of progression the proper style of 
shoes must be adapted and applied with a nice intelligence so 
that the exercise of their legs and feet may be fully sustained 
without violent waste of effort. In animated beings, soundness 
of parts and liberty of movement constitute the perfection of 



SHOEING YOUNG HORSES. 105 

existence ; hence it becomes a paramount duty that the training 
and gaitiug of horses be primarily conducted within this scope, 
a prerequisite of which is the observance of certain rational de- 
tails appertaining to the aiFairs of shoeing which all horsemen 
should understand. 

Care bestowed in Colthood. — While attention is being 
continually drawn to the foot of the horse after it is shod, few 
references are made to the hoof of the shoeless colt. The lat- 
ter is, by some peculiar oversight, left to take care of itself, as if 
it required no preparation whatever in the early stages of its 
existence. Consequently the limbs and action of many young 
colts are impaired from neglect of proper supervision of the 
most important of all his aids to locomotion — his hoofs. I have 
visited many breeding establishments of racing stock, where the 
last consideration of the proprietors appeared to be the import- 
ance of supplying conditions under which the feet of their 
youngsters could have every chance of proper development. 
Many times there may be seen promising two- or three-year olds 
with ragged, uneven feet, growing into all shapes but the right, 
when the most simple early attention would avert disease or de- 
formity. If the bearing surface of the young animal's foot is 
uneven, it most surely results in weakness of the limb or visible 
deformity when he arrives at maturity. Defective hoofs are of 
as a serious nature in the immature colt as in the full-grown or 
aged horse, and as much to be counteracted as in the horse reg- 
ularly shod by the expert shoeing smith, and neglect may bring 
regret at a later day ; for, in the case of the former, permanent 
injury is the result of inattention. He may grow in or out at 
the toes, either calf kneed, bent kneed, or knock kneed, just as 
the bearing surface of the hoof maintains its relations to the 
joints, ligaments and tendons of the limb of which it is the base. 

First Trial of Shoes. — The horse's hoof is after all a good 



106 SCIENTIFIC HORSESHOEING. 

deal of what we make it, and if our horses from colthood up, 
had tlieir feet more earefally attended to, the period of their ac- 
tive usefulness would be greatly extended, and in every way they 
would be found better suited for the work required of them. I 
am in a position to know some of the main causes that are re- 
sponsible for imperfections of gait and action in horses, and one 
of the foremost among them is the first shoes that are put upon a 
youngster. To shoe a colt for the first time and shoe him scientifi- 
cally, put a very light shoe on him, and every shoe the same 
weight front and hind, then you have your horse balanced per- 
fectly, as nature made him, and if pure gaited he can always be 
shod so. Afterward if he betrays a lack of balance, faulty ac- 
tion, or an uneven gait, a driver of keen observation can cer- 
tainly discover the imperfections and apply the proper correct- 
ives. To force a change in his way of going must be at the ex- 
pense of the joints and tendons. For if the articulation is such 
that the limb is forced to go in a wrong direction, any irregular 
or increased weighting of the foot to force it to go in a difl^erent 
direction wnll undoubtedly result in serious trouble. A broken 
gait and unbalanced movement comes from some evident cause. 
Remove that cause and the ill effects quickly disappear, and the 
animal becomes comfortable in his action, with the result of 
an increased desire, as also increased capacity to speed faster, 
and in such a smooth, rythmical way that it becomes a real 
pleasure to the noble animal. 

Modifications of Action. — In the course of my long ex- 
perience as a shoer, I have necessarily had a great deal to do by 
adaptation of shoes to the balancing and trueing of irregular 
and mixed gaited horses, representing every type and condition 
of foot soundness and soreness. I have thus come in contact 
with many horses w^here the cause of such disordered action 
seemed obscure, or where the true seat of trouble had its origin 
or location elsewhere, while apparently leaving its mark or mak- 



SHOEING YOUNG HORSES. 107 

ing its sign at the extremities of the limbs. It is proper to sug- 
gest, therefore, that, when beginning examinations at these 
points and failing to identify the trouble, you should not sus- 
pend investigations without subjecting other regions of the limbs 
and trunk to a close scrutiny, until the real cause of the ailment 
is discovered and you have satisfactorily remedied it before per- 
manent injury ensues from neglect or inadvertence. It may be 
that the horse is not well-balanced in physical build. If the 
shoulders are very straight the feet will not be properly flexed, 
nor will they if the pasterns are short and upright. He may 
have long legs and a short reach underneath, or he may have 
long, sloping or weak pasterns and be unnaturally close coupled 
in the back, or exceptionally open-angled from hip to hock. 
Also he may be long in his sweeps behind or he may carry his 
head too high or too low for a proper balance on his limbs, and 
any one of these so-called structural defects — by insufRciency or 
misdirection of purpose — may give rise to a derangement in the 
movement of extention or flexion, to take efi'ect in action or gait, 
or may lead to injury of the feet or limbs, as I will amplify in 
the section on " Faults of Conformation." 

Care of Horses' Mouths. — Illustrations in point of prob- 
able or remote causes assisting to disturb the action and break 
the gait of horses — which shoeing will avail nothing whatever 
toward remedying — may be found in the horse's mouth. 

This is one of the most sensitive organs of the equine econ- 
omy. All young horses coming three or four years old should 
have their mouths and teeth carefully examined when any 
symptoms of tenderness or irritation are shown, as it is at this 
age that some of the deciduous molars are replaced by the per- 
manent teeth. In some cases this gives rise to much pain and 
annoyance to horses, affecting their temper and sensibility. 
Again, in some horses, the structure of the teeth is of a compar- 
atively soft nature, and wears upon the grinding substances in 



108 SCIENTIFIC HORSESHOEING. 

a ragged and uneven manner, which severely cuts and lacerates 
the tongue and cheeks, or, by a driver repeatedly lugging on 
one rein or the other, hard, sharp, spur-like points are formed 
or irregularly grown on the borders of the teeth, which become 
an exciting cause of injury to the gums and membranes of the 
mouth, impairing the natural processes of mastication and con- 
tributing at the same time to a bad way of going; also, the ani- 
mal may sufier from toothache, due to a displaced crown of a 
temporary molar, or from ulceration, which will cause it to 
champ fretfully upon the bit and lurch to one side in such a sud- 
den manner that he "looses his feet," by becoming bad in his 
action and tangled in his gait. If a horse pulls his head and 
neck out of line with the median plane of his body the hind 
limb on that side is correspondingly misdirected, and its foot 
is forced to land between the front ones instead of in line with 
them, this cross-firing naturally impairs the steadiness of his gait 
and injuries are liable to occur from it. If a humane treatment 
of the teeth is pursued by people who own horses they will ob- 
viate these changes of locomotion, and at the same time be 
amply repaid by the improved appearances of their animals 
through proper mastication of their food and in their general 
order of movement. 

Handling Young Horses. — In gaiting young horses, much 
lies in the understanding how to equip and handle them. A 
driver or trainer can make or unmake the " thoroughbred close 
up," as he is wise to see that which is good, proves it worth, and 
holds fast to much that is tried, until it grows from the stage of 
experiment to law of permanent action. A horse may have 
plenty of spirit and yet be free from the undesirable habits of 
shying, breaking his gait and losing his balance, if the reins are 
made to deliver their right message. You might take a good 
horse, properly shod, and handle him like some cranky drivers 
do, and you could never judge just how a horse would best han- 



SHOEING YOUNG HORSES. 109 

die himself. The horse that is least governed is the best gov- 
erned, when you want to get at the point of how light or how 
heavy his shoes should be to get the best speed and style of ac- 
tion. Trotters are changed to pacers and pacers are changed to 
trotters simply by an adaptation of shoes to the animal's way 
of going, and instances are on record of horses trotting in one 
Tace and pacing in another, the change being effected simply 
by shoeing. It is true that this can not always be effected for 
some families pace naturally, and again it is nearly impossible 
to make a pure square line trotter into a pacer, but some have 
naturally an interchangeable gait, and if the possibilities of 
scientific shoeing were more thoroughly understood, we would 
see less crooked-legged, knee-padded, tendon-booted horses led 
out to display their forced speed, and its utilities would make 
their own demonstration in every department of horse enterprise. 

Determining the Gait. — You can not have strained ten- 
dons, swelled joints, and irregular-gaited horses if the feet are 
trued and balanced and the shoe properly adjusted to carry out 
the balance. Do this, and their action will be true and their 
gait equably sustained all the time. 

In developing a horse's gait and speed, shoeing is a matter 
of the utmost importance, and one which requires the greatest 
study and care. It is, in fact, half the battle. Careful, patient 
experimentation, extending over many days, or even weeks, 
may be necessary to ascertain these points. Not until they have 
been ascertained and safely met is the colt ready for a " trial of 
speed," or for the adjustment of any settled gait. For a green 
colt, no matter how pure-gaited he may be, is almost certain to 
cut his shins or his knees by striking them with his feet when 
he begins to travel at a high rate of speed. The skillful horse- 
man will carefully study all these varying points. The shoeing 
will largely depend upon the individual necessities of the an- 
imal and other similar conditions. 



110 SCIENTIFIC HORSESHOEING. 

Regulating the Gait. — With a view to correcting and bal- 
ancing with proper shoes and weights any faults he may have, 
carefully note every point in the action of a young horse while 
giving him a little preliminary driving. If the action is dispro- 
portionate, or the propelling power of the hind limbs excessive 
and their stride longer or more rapid than that of the front 
ones, their movements can be regulated and equalized in this 
way. The feet must first be leveled and balanced in the manner 
provided for when shoeing the perfect foot. (Fig. 23.) Very 
light shoes are then to be put on all round. For the front feet, 
use the pattern of scoop-toe shoe seen in Fig. 121, as this Avill 
quicken their revolution. Then, by using the shoe (Fig. 139) for 
the hind feet, having the ends of the branches calked length- 
wise and turned outward beyond the heel ^ inch or more, the 
flexion and extension of these limbs will be retarded to a degree 
that will accommodate them to the difference in movement of 
the front limbs. 

In all such instances, however, the weight of the shoes 
must be adapted to suit the style of action, some horses requir- 
ing more and some less weight, to fulfill the purpose in view. 
In cases where light shoes fail, or where the horse has a low, 
swift gait behind and does not use his hocks sufficiently, it is 
necessary to shoe heavier behind than in front — the hind shoes 
to weigh, say, from 4 to 5 ounces more — because the greater 
weiarht on the hind feet will cause him to use his hocks and 
muscles more in picking up his feet, and this will naturally tend 
to slow the action behind and thus allow time sufficient for the 
front feet to get out of the way. 

If the action is naturally well-balanced, the shoes should, 
of course, be of the same weight all round. 

Balancing the Action, — It is sometimes a matter of great 
difficulty to balance and square the action of horses, especially 
trotters. The requirements are so many and varied that various 



SHOEING YOUNG HORSES. Ill 

expedients must be resorted to in securing the benefits of 
shoeing. 

Some horses are long, low striders, and others high, short 
steppers. Some require heavy and some light shoes, and every 
style of open, bar, flat, concave, rolling, and weighted shoes, 
with difierent lengths of toes and heels, are necessary, amongst 
the rest, for times and occasions, to regulate and balance the 
action of difierent horses ; and much of the success that should 
attend the acquirement of a pure gait, or the correction of a 
faulty one, depends upon the discretion exercised in the selection 
of the right kind of shoe. 

When the action of a horse is short, high, and quick, or 
" choppy," in front, it will generally be found that the toe of 
the foot is too short and the heels too high, or that the pasterns 
and shoulders are upright. This can be remedied in effect by 
lowering the heels as much as possible, which will bring the 
foot more to the ground. In case the front part of the hoof has 
been rasped or pared too short, the shoe should be extended over 
and beyond the toe, and thus acquire a proper extent of ground 
surface. The weight of the shoe must be determined by the 
driver or owner as to what is best adapted for the horse to 
carry with ease and safety. 

When the action in front is long and low and stiff-kneed, 
put the foot in shape as for the perfect foot (Fig. 23), and use 
the scoop-toe rolling-motion shoe shown in Figs. 121 and 134, 
which will shorten the stride by lessening the extent of the 
ground tread, and at the same time effect an increase of knee 
action. A still more efficient aid in these respects will be found 
in the use of the plain rolling-motion shoe (Figl25), for in pro- 
portion to the increase of the roll in the shoe, so will be the 
increase of the action in the knee. The roll heightens and 
hastens the action, imparting, as it were, a " down-hill " impulse 
to the ste 

A common cause of bad action in speed horses is tenderness 



112 SCIENTIFIC HORSESHOEING. 

or soreness in the feet, resulting from improper shoeing. To 
shape and properly adjust a shoe to meet the varying require- 
ments of a horse's foot is an art that is not as thoroughly under- 
stood as it should be (as I have elsewhere shown), and there are 
still many primitive methods associated with the professional 
practice. No man is fit to shoe a horse unless he can balance 
and level a foot scientifically so as to preserve or restore the 
natural bearings of the joints and hoof, which is, after all, the 
main thing necessary, and the quantity of skill displayed in this 
respect constitutes the real difierence between the skilled and 
unskilled workman. An ill-fitting shoe is as inconvenient and 
painful to a horse as a tight boot is to his owner, and the com- 
parison more than justifies itself when it is borne in mind that 
the horse's shoe becomes a fixture not to be discarded at will, 
whence follow impaired action, distorted hoofs, corn bruises, 
inflammations, etc. A foot thus shod may be tortured by the 
cramping of nails around the toe or be " underpunched " and 
driven upon the sensitive parts ; or by scooping out the sole and 
then shoeing with too light, thin plates, causing what is known 
as " foot scald." Other penalties are inflicted by burning, caus- 
ing the hoof to become hard and dry; and in destroying the 
right angle of the foot by having high heels and short toes, or 
vice versa. A horse with a low gliding action behind can only 
move efiiciently with light-weight shoes, as the labor in such 
cases devolves mostly on the muscles of the thigh — the hock not 
opening wide, and much weight on the foot soon becomes fa- 
tiguing. The shoes for the hind feet should therefore be light 
as can be safely worn, and be well concaved on the ground 
surface, without heel-calks, as shown by Fig. 149. 

The Useful Gait, — It only remains to be added in this 
connection, that it will pay horsemen to cultivate that most use- 
ful gait for any horse — however restricted it may appear — 
namely, a good walk. The steady, good, four-miles-an-hour 



SHOEING YOUNG HOESES. 113 

walk is the gait that "gets there " with the most regularity and 
with the least amount of wear and tear of team and vehicle 
every time. The team that walks steadily and well, without 
being required to mar the walk by trotting over part of the 
road, generally reaches its destination before the one that divides 
the distance into periods of brisk trots and very slow walks. 
To improve the walk of a team, it should be taught to work 
persistently at that pace, without alternating the performance 
by any other style of going, for the time being, for that would 
spoil the salutary effects of the lesson. 



114 SCIENTIFIC HORSESHOEING. 



CHAPTER VI. 
SPECIAL AND GENERAL SHOEING. 

DEALING WITH DIFFERENT KINDS OF FEET. 

That there is a wide margin of difference in respect to the 
conformation and proportions which characterize the feet of 
different kinds of horses, or horses reserved for particular uses, 
is too constant and well established a fact to require formal as- 
sertion here, and that it is the practical difficulties of adjusting 
suitable shoes to meet these varied requirements that most of 
the failures of farriers is due, can not for a moment be denied. 
There is always a choice of modes and instrumentalities avail- 
able to the farrier, a question of preference as to this or that 
alternative in shoeing, and it often involves a considerable amount 
of practical ingenuity and good judgment to decide on a proced- 
ure that will insure good final results. 

This, indeed, constitutes the most difficult part of the art 
of shoeing, for it is plainly evident that all feet, differing as they 
do in conditions and uses, can not be alike operated upon, nor 
can one kind of shoe be supposed to answer the purposes of all. 
The safety, speed and endurance of a horse greatly depend 
upon the adaptation of his shoeing to the nature ef the work he 
has to perform, and at all times a careful application of it to the 
state of his foot. 

In general terms this represents a comparison applicable to 
the science of horseshoeing in its best state, that, in its degree, 
it demands as much expertness, knowledge, and attention to 



SPECIAL AND GENERAL SHOEING. 115 

details, as is required in the construction of a delicate musical 
instrument that it may keep in tune and harmonious action. 

The mode of dealing with each foot, therefore, should be 
influenced both by its kind of condition and the kind of service 
for which the horse is designed. A want of attention in this 
respect or a disregard of the consequences entailed by such neg- 
lect, is largely responsible for the disasters that wait on misap- 
plied shoeing ; not only marring the utility of shoeing to all 
intents and purposes, but rendering it a menace instead of a pro- 
tection. 

Without being an alarmist, and not presuming to claim a 
monopoly of advantages in criticizing the objectionable features 
most noticeable in the common run of horseshoers' work, I 
again refer to my observations in Chapter IV on the importance 
of settling and balancing the foot on the normal center of 
equilibrium, which it must be understood inclines, and is fixed 
or altered according to the natural or unnatural growth of the 
hoof; then, in the right adaptation of the shoe to maintain and 
carry out this balance. Reiterating these primary facts, all 
the more from the frequency of the instances where they are 
wholly disregarded (there being one good intelligent shoer, it is 
safe to say, where there are ten others ruining horses right 
along), and to the further fact that they are at the very begin- 
ning of all inquiries relating to the proper shoeing of horses of 
any and every kind, as well as to the cause and treatment of many 
foot ailments. Hereafter my references and comparisons in 
dealing with the other portions of my subject may be considered 
as constantly applying to, or as being based on, the general mat- 
ters of shoeing advanced in the chapter just mentioned. 

The Running or Galloping Horse. — The running horse 
occupies a legitimate position at the head of field racing. As- 
pirants for distinction in this class must have physical merit to 
make prominent those qualities which alone prove most accept- 



116 



SCIENTIFIC HORSI]SHOEING. 




Fig. 30. racing plate fob running or 
galloping horses. 



able on the track — vital- 
ity, strength, speed, and 
endurance. The running 
horse concentrates the 
full power of a perfect 
animal organism in his 
terrific bursts of speed, 
and is rewarded accord- 
ing to his deserts. Con- 
sidering the immense 
length of stride, or the 
distance covered with 
each forward movement 
or jump in the act ot 
galloping, when each front and hind pair of bipeds are 
extended to their utmost in rapid succession to receive, sus- 
tain and transfer the weight of the body, as well as the burden 
of the rider, it will be readily appreciated that the result of 
these efforts (sometimes prolonged in hard contests) must prove 
a severe test of the structural makeup of any horse, and that in 
the eliminating process where exceptional speed marks the 
■*' survival of the fittest," a large proportion of all running and 
racing horses soon cease to be available for speed or any other 
profitable purpose. From the violence of their exertions they 
are liable to sprains of tendons and ligaments, and a sprained 
leg must always remain a weak leg. 

The great sprain producing or "breaking down " pace is 
the gallop, but (as this injury more nearly concerns the limbs 
above the fetlock) as a rule, running horses have much better 
feet than trotters. This is due to the softer tracks over which 
they course, and to the consistent use of light thin shoes, 
so that the frog impinges the ground with such a firm tread 
as to overcome any interposition to the expansive capacity 



SPECIAL AND GENERAL SHOEING. 117 

of the foot while in action, we must, for the most part, ascribe 
that better condition observable in the feet of running horses. 

To preserve them in this way, despite their hard manner 
'of going, it necessarily requires judicious care and the barring 
out of most of the objectionable features to be found in shoe- 
ing. When properly applied according to their natural require- 
ments, the training shoes of running horses are quite light, placed 
•on with only a few small nails, not to unnecessarily crowd, split, 
•or weaken the wall ; then, before racing these training shoes 
are removed, the feet accurately leveled and balanced like the 
form in Fig. 23, and racing plates substituted. The latter are 
a light, narrow rim, about -^ in. thick x f in. wide, weighing, 
say, 1| to 2h ounces, though this must be proportioned to suit 
the conditions of going, gait, balance, etc. These plates should 
be well concaved on the ground surface, with a fine edge all 
round, to catch the first impulse of the spring at the toe without 
slipping, and be adjusted to the precise line of the hoof, just 
covering the wall-bearing to insure perfect action without com- 
pressing or touching any other part. The nails should have 
thin, narrow blades and sharp points and be driven around the 
sides and heels even to the extreme ends of the branches of the 
shoe, as shown in Fig. 30 ; to point out through the thick lower 
margin of the wall, and thus secure a solid, permanent hold, as 
shown in Fig. 29. 

In this way, the task (worthy of the most intelligent farrier) 
to combine the right and useful utilities of the work will be in- 
sured, to the desirable end that "violence during locomotion," 
which constitutes the serious and irreparable accident termed 
"breaking down," will, at least, be restrained in so far as shoe- 
ing can effect it. 

The Trotting Horse. — The trotting horse must be consid- 
ered in the light of a pattern road horse — generally useful in 
form, gait and docility, to meet any demand — combining the 



118 



SCIENTIFIC HORSESHOEING. 



ambition of a gentleman's driver and the reliability of a lady's 
phaeton horse. The influence of the trotting-bred animal is 
favorably seen in its eftects upon the general character of our 
roadster stock, which it has greatly improved for all practical 
purposes and enhanced in all desirable respects. In other lines 
his public performances on the turf have given the trotting 
horse a prominence unequaled as his excellence, and he is every- 
where fancied as the favorite among speed horses. In this re- 
spect the distinctive trotter is an example of modern evolution ; 
as will be seen by a reference to the following table, which gives 
a list of the standard, record-taking performers, in and subse- 
quent to the year 1806, from which date the development of the- 
trotting classes are credited. 



CHAMPIONS OF THE FAST-CLASS REGULATION MILE-TRACKS. 



1806 
1810 
1829 
1834 
1839 
1844 
1844 
1849 
1849 
1849 
1855 
1859 
1867 
1867 
1868 
1869 
1871 
1872 



Name. 



Yankee 

Boston Horse 

Topgallant, 3 miles 

Edwin Forrest 

Drover — 

Lady Suffolk 

Unknown.. 

Pelham, converted pacer . . 

Highland Maid 

Flora Temple 

Pocahontas, pacing to wagon 

Flora Temple 

Dexter. . 

Dexter 

Lady Thomas 

American Girl, 31 oz. shoes.. 

Goldsmith Maid 

Lucy 



03 



2 59 
2 48H 
8 11 
2 31 
2 28 
2 26 
2.23 
2 28 
2.27 
2.241^ 
2 171^ 
2 19% 
2 19 
2 17 '4 
2.18M 
2 19»i 
2.17 
2 18J4 



1874 
1875 
1876 
1878 
1878 
1879 
1889 
1880 
1881 
1881 
1884 
1884 
1885 
1889 
1891 
1892 
1894 
1895 



Name. 



same date 



Goldsmith Maid 

Lula 

Smuggler 

Rarus 

Hopeful 

St. Julien . . 
St. Julien ( 
Maude S. S 

Maud S 

Maud S 

Jay Eye See 

Maud S . 

Maud S 

Guy 

Sunol 

Nancy Hank.s 

Alix (against time) 



14 

15 M. 
15 Ji 
13^ 

Vl% 
11%: 
11%: 
lOM 

lok 

10 

095i 

0K%- 

10% 

08%- 

04 

03%- 



(It is freely predicted that a speed of two minutes is not 
only possible, but probable, in the immediate future.) 

This gradual development of the trotting horse to his pres- 
ent state of excellence, and the still greater excellence to which 
farther development in the future will certainly elevate him, can 
not fail to improve all kinds of light harness horses in general 
use. The trotter will train on and breed on. People who are 
not horsemen, in the strict acceptance of the word, but who^ 



SPECIAL AND GENERAL SHOEING. 119 

nevertheless, enjoy a ride behind a good horse, will become more 
and more impressed with the fact that it costs no more to keep 
a good horse than a poor one, and that in horses, as in every- 
thing else, the best is the cheapest. The demand for good 
horses will therefore increase, and as the general horsekeeping 
jjublic become more and more learned in the knowledge of what 
ii good horse really is, they will take nothing else. 

In the evolution of the trotting horse the most vital and 
imperative points commanding the attention of horsemen and 
farriers have been the acquirement of constantly improved 
methods and skill af)plying to the intelligent supervision of his 
feet and legs, the most important parts of the animals structure, 
upon the soundness of which its capacity for speed and power 
of endurance greatly depend. I have already referred (in the 
chapter on " Shoeing Young Horses '') to the many perplexities 
to be encountered in the progress of shoeing trotting horses, 
owing to the variety and velocity of movement, and because 
each single front leg is required to alternate at certain successive 
moments in bearing all of the weight and impetus of moving, 
instead of sharing it with its counterpart, as in the act of stand- 
ing or running, in all of which there is always an increase of the 
difficulties of shoeing. 

The weight and style of shoe, are, therefore, to be regarded 
with the utmost nicety of judgment, and such matters must be 
thoroughly understood in adapting the shoe to its proper intent. 
It is necessary for the shoe to be well adjusted to a close, strong 
bearing upon the wall, and that it be sufficiently wide to sustain 
the usage required without bending or twisting, nor yet to touch 
or bear against the sole. The shoe should therefor be beveled off 
inside of the wall-bearing and lit the hoof to the best advantage 
uniformly around all parts, with a firm seat toward the heels, 
and in all other respects let it be made and fitted like the shoe 
for the perfect foot, Figs. 27 and 28. By having the ends of 
shoes beveled off' on the same angle as the heels of the hoof, 



120 SCIENTIFIC HORSESHOEING. 

the force of landing will pass through the ball of the foot on 
the right axis of the leg, without injury to the back tendons. 
Three nails on each side of shoe opposite each other will allow 
the foot to expand equally on both quarters and thus avoid the 
danger of foot and leg soreness. It should be borne in mind 
that pressure from the shoe must be kept off around the front 
part of the foot to prevent toe soreness, as the hoof grows more 
at the toe than at the quarters. 

Some horses may require scoop-toe shoes, or shoes concaved 
on the ground surface, others, small heel calks ; but these points,, 
together with weight of shoes, etc., must be adjusted to suit the 
stride and gait of the horse. When starting trotting horses in 
their spring work after a long winter's rest, it is advisable in 
some cases to have their front shoes weigh four or five ounces 
more than the shoes worn in the fall races, as these heavier shoes- 
will assist them in getting up more quickly to their stride. Reset 
the shoes every ten or fifteen days, so that the foot may be kept 
level and balanced, and at all times fit the shoes snug around 
the hoof to avoid striking them ofi:" by an overreach. 

Another point worthy of note in this connection is, that by 
watching the action of a trotting horse and attentively listening 
to the soimd of each footfall, the rhythm of their movement may" 
be observed and any irregularity detected. Thus, if the action 
is balanced the succession of steps will fall in regular 1-2-3-4 
time, but if any irregular interval occurs — either slower or faster 
— there is a difference in the length of stride. Where there is 
a long interval, the stride of the slow-moving limb is longer 
than its fellows, and where there is a short interval, the stride 
of the quick-moving limb is shorter than the others. These- 
irregularities may be due to some inequality of the foot — a high 
heel or short toe will cause an unbalanced gait or an unequal 
stride. A foot shorter on the ground surface — that is, with 
short toes — is shorter in stride and quicker in its fall than the 
others. If the front feet are upon the same angle, same height 



SPECIAL AND GENERAL SHOEING. 121 

of wall from coronet to base, same length of ground tread from 
heel to toe, and carry the same weight and style of shoes, their 
action and stride should be the same, and this rule applies also 
to the hind feet. 

To supply any insufficiency in ground tread of hoof, the 
shoe should be made to project over the toe enough to line up 
with the correct angle of hoof and pastern, all as explained and 
shown in Chap. IV, with Figs. 16 to 29. 

The Pacing Horse. — Having shown in the preceding chap- 
ter that the necessity for action of a certain kind has in some 
cases been the cause of breed evolution, and in others breed evo- 
lution has necessitated the development of action of an entirelv 
different character, I come now to speak of one of these artificial 
gaits as displayed by the pacing-bred animal. The pacing horse 
shows his ability to successfully compete with other distinctive 
" speed horses " in their own sphere, but he will not compare 
side by side in popular favor with the trotter as a road horse. 
The action is a succession of changes from one side biped to the 
other, resulting in the active swaying and balancing of the body 
with a sidelong shifting movement, developing in the best 
types, great reach of stride at speed in an easy frictionless man- 
ner, with much force and power of action. 

For horses of this kind use as light and thin shoes as will 
suffice for the protection of the hoofs from concussion in swift 
movements, but no more. They should be concaved on the 
ground surface to make landing secure without spreading or 
sliding, and for the same purpose the hind shoes may have low- 
heel calks. Figs. 140 or 149. In all other points observe the 
order of procedure in leveling the foot, adjusting and nailing the 
shoes, according to conditions noted in connection with perfect 
foot. Chap. IV., Figs. 23 and 27. 

The Racking Horse.— Another acquired gait is called the 



122 



SCIENTIFIC HORSESHOEING. 




Fig. 31. English seated shoe for 
racking or saddle horses and for 
general driving purposes on horses 
having good stong arched feet. 



rack, which is especially 
adapted for saddle horses, 
being a rapid, attractive 
style, graceful and pleasant 
for a rider — though, as horse- 
men know — exacting on the 
stamina of a horse. The 
gait is performed by the ac- 
tion of each lateral biped in 
rotation. The revolution of 
the front feet exhibit a high 
knee action, full of mettle, 
with a hard, almost perpen- 
dicular descent; in conse- 
quence of which there is an 
aptitude in horses of this 
class to overreach and thus strike off' the front shoes by the for- 
ward thrust of the hind feet. 

The objects to be looked to in shoeing the racking horse 
are to provide a secure footing and avoid unnecessary concussion 
or the mischance of picking up stones. The shoes for the front 
feet should therefore be of a light concaved pattern, such as the 
English seated shoe shown in Fig. 31, or in case of overreach use 
the scoop-toe rolling motion shoe, Fig. 121, as this will quicken 
the action of the front limbs ; and for still quicker movement 
over the toe, use a plain roller-motion shoe, such as Fig. 125. 
For the hind feet the addition of heel calks to shoes, as shown 
in Fig. 140, will give a more effective footing by sinking deeper 
into the ground. In all cases, however, the feet should be kept 
strong in all parts and the shoes fitted accurately to a firm po- 
sition on the wall, as for the perfect foot. Fig. 28. 



The General Purpose Horse. — This class of horses may 
be held to include numerous miscellaneous representatives of all 



SPECIAL AND GENERAL SHOEING. 123 

classes in all sorts and conditions of life : from the sleek, well- 
groomed, and handsomely appointed, light-stepping roadster of 
the successful professional or business man, to the " general 
utility" animals of the coach, omnibus, and livery lines, as well 
as the workaday horses of the common carriers and the sedate 
looking, steady going, well known family carriage horse. 

Thus classified, or grouped, there is enough diversity in 
size, style, and general character of performance to apparently 
tax the ingenuity of the shoeing smith; yet there is nothing 
formidable in this array after all, and all maybe treated with 
great ease and simplicity, though with that regard and atten- 
tion which each may seem to demand. The same process of 
shoeing as appertains to my formula for the perfect foot, and 
the same shoe as shown in that connection (Fig. 27) applies 
here, and may be followed with general success throughout, as 
this shoe will prove most serviceable for all horses going at a 
"jog trot," especially for summer wear on the front feet. I 
would not recommend the promiscuous use of calks on shoes, 
for where such cramps seem of use to the support of a horse by 
the impression they make in the surface, it will be seen from my 
method of shoeing race horses, where the frog comes to the 
ground, notwithstanding the course they run over is often slip- 
pery and they are up to their speed, yet they seldom fall, and 
this style. of even, plain shoeing, would seem to be well calcu- 
lated to answer for the same purposes generally. Still, when toe 
and heel calks are required, it is well to state that the toe calks 
should be of good length, set slightly back from the front rim 
of the shoe, as this will assist the easy going over at that point 
without deviation or hindrance to the action. 

The Draft Horse. — Dropping from the higher types to 
the draft horses we still find that conditions of environment 
have given to the different breeds of this class their own char- 
acteristic ways of going. The true gait . of the draft horse is 
9 



124 SCIENTIFIC HORSESHOEI>'G. 

the walk, though the candidate for the best honors must show 
that he can go faster than a walk when necessary, but still main- 
tain his legs in such a position as to enable him to exert the 
maximum of his strength as occasion may require. A typical 
instance may be selected from the Clydesdale family, whose 
long continued use in the heavy soil of Scotland has caused him 
to lift his feet squarely up, flex his ankle joints deeply, turning 
the sole of his feet squarely up, and then, with a long swinging 
stride, implant them on the earth again, indicative of his perfect 
ability to carry or draw the burden to be thrown upon him. The 
hocks of draft horses should not be carried too wide apart, for 
that detracts from their powder (resulting from muscular fatigue) 
in the exertions consequent on heavy hauling. That the feet 
of such horses should be strong and healthy, with firm hardness 
of hoofs, will be readily inferred from a consideration of their 
important, special uses as supports, from whence proceeds, as 
the base of action, whatever there is of bodily strength or physi- 
cal power to work or strive " with might and main " within the 
sphere assigned them. Yet how frequently do we see horses of 
this class with weak, tender feet, marked by mishaps from care- 
less exposure to irregular, hard, loose bodies upon which their 
heavy tread may chance to fall, or lame from the lodgment of 
flints and pebbles between the sole and shoe, to which the cus- 
tomary method of shoeing greatly contributes by paring down 
the sole and frog, and weakening the heel by opening up the 
space between the angles of the bar and wall, and then setting 
the toe and heels too high from the ground, otherwise removing 
them too great a distance from the point of support, which tends 
all the more to an excess of pressure upon the cofiin-joint, as 
well as to the fatigue of the nerves and tendon upon which it 
rests, by the distention they undergo at every step the horse 
takes. It is not to be supposed that teamsters, traffic-men or 
farmers give their horses' feet the particular attention given to 
the higher class of racing and pleasure horses, but they can most 



SPECIAL AND GENERAL SHOEING. 125 

assuredly give them common-sense care, and this will often spare 
unnecessary punishment to, or save the life of, a useful and val- 
uable animal. 

" Experience keeps a dear school," but a wise man will 
learn to profit by the mistakes of others, and this particular ad- 
vantage everyone may reap from the foregoing references to the 
present subject of inquiry, namely, to keep your horses' feet 
strong as nature made them, level and balance them as I have 
sufficiently pointed out and amply explained under the head of 
" Practical Ilorseshoing." Pare away as little of the sole, frog, 
and bars, as possible, to accomplish this end in the proper way, 
then adjust as plain and light a shoe as accurately to the hoof 
as may be done, and, lastly, fasten it on with no larger nor more 
nails than are judged sufficient to make it secure in position for 
a reasonable length of time ; and I will guarantee on the strength 
of long years of experience and close observation, that the fruit- 
ful source from which arise the many dangerous compressions, 
inflammations, etc., already mentioned, will be obviated, and 
you will have learned, without the aid of other tutor, the great 
scientific lesson of rational horseshoeing. 

But though this method may not be so generally adopted 
by all in its utmost extent, for the reasons previously announced, 
that from the dift'erent formation of horses' hoofs, which in some 
will always demand a particular method of shoeing, yet it un- 
doubtedly applies to the majority of horses generally met with, 
and the exceptions remain to be further noted. 

The shoes for draft horses should be only moderately heavy, 
not too thick, and as narrow in their covering as the case admits, 
so as not to endanger the elasticity of the sole. 

Figs. 32 and 33 indicate the patterns usually adopted for 
front and hind feet respectively, showing four nails on each 
side exactly opposite one another, to do the best service with the 
least injury. Toe and heel calks are in general vogue for shoes 
of this kind, and they should always be of equal height and low 



126 



SCIENTIFIC HOKSESHOEING. 




as possible — the lower the 
better for the ease and 
^5 ifety of the horse. The 
CKpediencj of calks may 
)metime8 be questioned 
especially on the front 
i et, howsoever conveni- 
nt or successful they may 
1 e in respect to the hold 
they secure, for they ag- 
gravate the inequalities of 
bearing and deprive the 
feet of liberty of accom- 
modation, and work in- 
juries to the freedom of 
the locomotory apparatus 
as previously mentioned. 

Resort to toe clips, 
and burning them into the 
hoof to assist in the retention of the shoe, is often productive 
of injury to and soreness in the foot — as I shall illustrate further 
along — but when applied 
they should be carefully 
turned up with reference to 
these effects, and also in line 
with the angle of the hoof, 
using a knife to notch the 
hoof where they are to be 
buried. 

By the method of shoe- 
ing proposed in connection 
with Fig. 27, and since re- 
ferred to according to the 
perfection or imperfection of Fig. 33. hind foot shoe for draft horse. 



Fig. 32. front foot shoe for draft borse. 

A, A, B, B, Figs. 32 and 33, Lines showing 
the equal adjustment of shoe to the normal 
center of foot from heel to toe and across 
•quarters, thus placing the weight upon the 
right portions of the foot and the shoe under 
the right weight bearers. 




SPECIAL AND GENERAL SHOEING. 127 

the hoofs under consideration, it will be seen that the advan- 
tages arising from the plain and simple processes recommended 
are, that the free action of the extremities in going with ease is 
preserved, by not setting on any more iron than is necessary ; 
and that in not removing the frog, the foot rests more evenly 
from toe to heel, thus multiplying its points of support and 
giving it a stronger and more adherent landing, without lessen- 
ing the surface of ground tread nor yet increasing its friction 
or fatiguing the stride. 

It is observable that a horse goes easy or escapes soon being 
jaded if the frog receives a certain amount of pressure, as it is 
the supporting cushion to the back tendons, also defending the 
sensitive sole against many inconvenient bruises, so that if it is 
kept at a distance from the ground by high heels or by paring 
it away, an inordinate distension of the tendons will happen, 
causing relaxations, swellings and soreness, which are occasioned 
more by paring the sole and frog than by hard driving or the 
distance traveled. Experience has shown that the frog, being 
of a soft, flexible substance, by its natural elasticity, yields to the 
weight of the horse the instant his foot touches the ground, and 
immediately recovers itself again, thus giving a natural expan- 
sion to the foot with every step taken. When contracted feet 
have to be expanded, the most simple, safe, and at the same 
time, eftective means of attaining that end is to be found in this 
action of the frog. An overgrowth of hoof, that is, high heels 
and long toes, displaces the normal balance of the foot and bear- 
ings of the joints, and causes contraction, weakness and a curl 
under at one or both sides of the heels, forcing the foot bones 
upward — twisting the coronet — producing malformation of the 
wall and an atrophied condition of the internal parts from de- 
fect of nourishment and loss of strength caused by pressure of 
the hoof; all of which defections may be entirely averted if the 
foot is properly dressed as directed. Or before becoming perma- 
nentl}^ established, they may be overcome if the foot is leveled 



128 SCIENTIFIC HORSESHOEING. 

and balanced so as to restore frog pressure, when the latter 
speedily recovers its lost characteristics and, again, in a healthy 
condition, gradually and naturally accomplishes one of the very 
purposes for which it was put there. 

However, there may be cases whereby sudden frog pressure 
might occasion soreness for the time being, when it is still hard 
and dry, or when a horse has worn shoes for a long time, having 
thick, high heels ; but by leveling the frog on a line with the 
hoof when preparing the foot to its proper bearing angle as di- 
rected this disorder is soon remedied. 

Proportions of the Hoof. — It is apparent from the anatomy 
of the foot that there is a fixed limit beyond which the growth of 
the hoof should not proceed, though this growth is, in itself, con- 
stant or indefinite, enlarging the base of the hoof as it proceeds. 
In a natural, unshod state, attrition or wear by the strain of the 
animal's mere weight is sufficient to keep the hoof in such size 
and condition that-the balancing of the body is properly distrib- 
uted upon the digital regions, thus obviating the impairment 
and lameness which result from improper shoeing, as well as the 
premature breaking down of horses through the overgrowth 
and unbalancing of their hoofs. 

No definite rate can be assigned to the growth of the hoof, 
as some develop more rapidly than others and in different parts, 
though it is claimed by some w^riters that it requires a year to 
renew a complete w^all. The toes of the fore feet and the heels 
of the hind feet are relatively the thickest and strongest parts 
of the wall, and consequently the growths there are more marked 
than at the quarters. In a naturally well-proportioned horse the 
ground tread of the fore feet is longer from heel to toe by from 
f in. to 1 in. than across the quarters, and in the hind feet from 
1^ in. to 1| in. 

These is no use in mincing matters for the more one knows 
about shoeing, the more he knows that the common mode of 



SPECIAL AND GENERAL SHOEING. 129 

doing the work is so frequently destructive, that we seldom meet 
with a horse whose feet have not in some degree lost their natu- 
ral form, and this deviation from their original shape is gener- 
ally proportioned to the length of time he has worn shoes. We 
may learn from this that the horse in a state of bondage is a 
subject fit for our gravest consideration and worthy of every care 
and attention that we can bestow. Certainly it is true that this 
applies with particular directness to the matter of shoeing, where 
extra precaution should be adopted and intelligent observation 
maintained, in order to guard against unnecessary punishment, 
and secure the best results. 

Resetting the Shoes. — It not infrequently happens that 
horses go lame from an overgrowth of hoof by allowing the 
shoes to remain on too long. A false economy about shoeing 
bills on the part of the owner — by persisting in the continuance 
of shoes on his horse after they have been outgrown by the 
hoof — is wrong and unreasonable, as the infliction of an unnec- 
essary punishment. Under ordinary circumstances and condi- 
tions of hoof growth the general purpose and draft horse should 
have his feet adjusted and shoes reset every four weeks, and on 
the track or speed horse, every two weeks to preserve the nec- 
essary harmony of action and balance in the foot. 

Owing to the fact that the hind feet differ from the front 
ones in shape, operation, and mode of growth, a different method 
of shoeing should be applied to them. The action of the hind 
limbs, as previously outlined, carries the sweep of the feet nearer 
the ground, and the lighter force of weight in these parts gives 
less fixity to the tread ; hence, it follows, that calks are less ob- 
jectionable on the hind shoes, as they tend to keep a horse from 
sliding on a descent, and secure the footing by a deeper clutch 
on the ground. Calks, however, should be rather flat and the 
shoes generally narrower in the web than the front ones (though 
stiff enough to insure substantial form) as a better grip is thus se- 



130 SCIENTIFIC HORSESHOEING. 

cured in the act of springing, and no loss of power sustained in 
the extension of the stride. The shoes also should be attached 
well back of quarters and heels, as these are the stronger parts 
of the wall ; but in all cases, both front and back shoes should 
follow the exact marginal line of the wall from toe to heels, and 
if any deficiency exists in the length or width of hoof, the shoe 
is the thing to supply it with ; then if the foot is leveled and 
angled aright, the shoe is to maintain the level by being of uni- 
form thickness, and wherever the foot requires to be raised or 
lowered let the shoe be thickened or thinned to suit the emer- 
gencies of the case. 

Comments on the Gait of Speed Horses. — Some inter- 
esting comparisons are suggested by the records of the phenom- 
enal "time beaters " tabulated on page 118. 

Selecting, for an example, the recorded performance of 
Nancy Hanks in 1892, when she trotted a mile on a regulation 
track in the remarkably quick time of 2 minutes and 4 seconds, 
a simple calculation will serve to indicate the rate of speed re- 
quired for its execution. 

The line measure of our standard mile being 1,760 yards or 
5,280 feet, it is seen that in dividing the distance traveled by 
the time expended (reduced to seconds), we have 5,280 feet by 
124 seconds=42i|- feet — or the rate per second traveled by 
Nancy Hanks in the foregoing race. 

By another process the gait of horses or the length of their 
stride will be similarly conveyed. Assuming the stride of the 
horse to measure 16 feet, it will require 330 such strides to com- 
plete the circuit of a mile. If the stride is a rod long (or 16J 
feet), there will be 320 to the mile ; and if 17 feet in length, the 
number of strides to the mile will be 310^. 



LAMENESS AND DISEASES, ETC 131 



CHAPTER VII. 
LAMENESS AND DISEASES OF THE FOOT- 

PATHOLOGICAL SHOEING. 

We can scarcely overestimate the value of sound legs and 
feet in the horse, and having their condition and efficiency for 
a subject, it also naturally follows that the pathology of these 
organs becomes a special topic for inquiry, for their situation and 
uses, naturally expose them to a greater liability to injury and 
disease than any other portion of the animal organization. 

The advantages to be derived from a safe and scientific 
mode of shoeing in the treatment of many of the varied troubles 
to which the feet and legs of horses are constantly subject, are 
attracting more attention among horsemen than formerly, even 
as the results to be obtained from such treatment are their own 
best proof of the merits of the agency employed, which need 
but to be seen and understood to be indorsed by all. It is the 
verdict of experience that a rational, approved method of shoe- 
ing will hot only protect the horse's foot from injurious wear, 
and thus prevent the certain damage otherwise ensuing, but act- 
ing on the doctrine that " like cures like," it will transmute the 
evils that men do into good, through its instrumentality as a 
corrective for the manifold crimes committed in its name. This, 
in truth, is the legitimate mission of farriery — " preventing, cur- 
ing, or mitigating diseases." Veterinary surgery — indispensable 
though it be as a healing art — is not competent to deai success- 
fully with even the most frequent and familiar of the troubles 
that beset or waylay the horse at almost every footstep, though 
there are only too many cases in which horses are retired to the 
hospital, or unnecessarily subjected to the torture of " fire and 



132 SCIENTIFIC HORSESHOEING. 

blister," while all the fault lies at the bottom of the hoof, in an 
overgrowth of the wall. 

It is of such diseases as have their origin in, or otherwise af- 
fect the feet, and which may be relieved or cured by rational 
methods of shoeing, that I purpose treating under this head. 

The different character of the diseases as manifested by dis- 
organized structures or deformities of the foot and hoof, are 
illustrated by typical specimens carefully drawn and selected 
from many similar examples which I have in my possession — the 
collection of years spent in such research — which form a com- 
plete exhibition of the morbid eflects resulting from neglect, 
abuse, and improper management of the horse's foot. 

Many foot troubles, when allowed to exist by neglect, or 
when improperly treated, are oftentimes obstinate and difficult 
of cure, or are productive of permanent injury or total disabil- 
ity ; others yield readily to a seasonable application of proper 
remedies, and may thus be completely overcome and the foot 
restored to perfect strength and vigor. 

Most generally the nature of the symptoms, as shown on 
the joints, tendons or coronet, are directly traceable to an im- 
properly shod or unbalanced foot, and the eye trained to recog- 
nize such tokens will be quick to note that there are no existing 
conditions in the limb that will make it possible for them to find 
birth in it, and as ready to know that all there is to be done is 
to have a competent farrier straighten the foot, and shoe it ac- 
cordingly, to restore the natural conditions and functions of the 
locomotory apparatus. 

Causation of Diseases. — It is estimated that 75 per cent 
of all the diseases that horse-flesh is heir to, are due to the so- 
called "necessary evils" of shoeing, and it is found that most 
of this long category arises from a disregard of the primary prin- 
ciples of establishing a level footing for the horse to go upon. 
Hence I find myself incessantly repeating again and again that 



LAMENESS AND DISEASES, ETC. 133 

the first and last object of attention — the source and center of 
success in farriery — is to bring the feet to a perfectly level bear- 
ing, so that they will point straight and true in line with the 
limbs, and the action of locomotion will be performed with easy 
continuous regularity like the movement of a pendulum. By 
keeping this principle steadily in view, I feel assured that I have 
done more for the improvement of the strength and perfection 
of the horse's foot than could have been done by learning all 
the mysteries of the veterinary school. "Without it, all the soak- 
ing tubs, bandages, liniments, etc., are so much time and money 
wasted. 

Though the first condition of incipient trouble has thus been 
pointed out and evidently proved, the matter does not end here, 
for an uneven and unbalanced hoof — high heels or long toes or 
inequalities in height of wall, which displace the natural angle 
of the foot — is, after all, not difficult to detect when knowing 
how and where to look for them, and may easily be regulated by 
any one who will attentively consider the principles of adjust- 
ment as defined in connection with the use of the instruments, 
Chapter IV. 

If the heels are allowed to grow too high the greater part 
of the weight is thrown forward upon the toe and bony struct- 
ures of the limb, and the bones of the foot are forced forward 
against the wall in front. Inflammation of the foot and soreness 
in the joints and bones soon follow. If the toes, on the contrary, 
are allowed to grow too long, then the excess of weight is thrown 
upon the back part of the foot and the flexor tendons become 
sore, strained or ruptured. If one heel or quarter is permitted 
to grow higher than the other, the high side will receive the first 
jar in landing, which bruises the heel on that side and causes 
inflammation and corns. The hoofs, therefore, must be pared 
or dressed in such a way that the weight of the animal will be 
equally distributed upon the ball of the foot between the bones 



134 hClKNTlFlC HORSESHOEING. 

and flexor tendons, in accordance with the instructions given 
for leveling and balancing the feet, as described in Chap. IV. 

The use of toe and heel calks will also produce soreness or 
lameness in fast horses by their uncertain or unequal contact 
with rough, stony pavements, causing a side rocking or tilting 
motion in the limb, racking the joints of the foot which are not 
capable of much lateral motion. 

Another cause that is generally overlooked is the attachment 
of shoes with an unequal number of nails on either side of its 
branches. For example, if four nails are used on the outside 
and only three on the inside branch of the shoe, the inner side, 
with the least number of nails being less permanently fixed, 
yields to the outside more firmly seated on the unyielding- 
shoe, and thus by growth and tension the inner side (with less 
nails), is gradually forced in or under the leg, while the outer 
side (with more nails), is correspondingly carried outward and 
away from its normal center and thus the hoof becomes de- 
formed and its movements deranged. Then, by a reversal of the 
above arrangement, that is to drive four nails on the inner side 
of the shoe and only three on the outer, the process will in two 
or three shoeings, return the foot to its natural form and straight 
position by the same means and in the same manner through 
which it had lost them. This demonstrates the necessity of 
shoeing according to the principles already defined — having the 
nails alike on both sides and set opposite each other, as directed 
with Fig. 27. 

Locating the Lameness. — -I^o horseman or farrier need be 
told the effects of splints, sidebones, curbs, spavins or ringbones, 
or how they make themselves known by the condition of the 
organs to which they extend. Hence I shall not now attempt 
to define their symptoms, as they will be succinctly dealt with 
hereafter, but confine the present inquiry to a search for more 
obscure conditions which may attack the foot, while having their 



LAMENESS AND DISEASES, ETC. 135 

location elsewhere, or otherwise appear in remote regions when 
the foot itself is at fault. 

The nicest observation is sometimes demanded to identify 
and locate the causes which produce certain derangements of 
the locomotory apparatus, where a horse is said to " go sore," or 
exhibits signs of tenderness. Simple or severe lameness, where 
the condition of disabled functions is plainly manifested by the 
animal refusing to use an injured leg, or to bear any or an equal 
portion of its weight upon a disabled foot, may easily be de- 
tected ; but mere tenderness or soreness is more difficult to lo- 
cate. Serious results may at times follow from the obscurity 
enveloping the early stages of many foot ailments, for in the 
absence of early treatment, which a correct diagnosis would have 
given, they may easily develop into more complicated maladies 
or become transformed into chronic, incurable cases. Hence the 
importance of early symptoms, how they betray themselves, and 
what region or structure is aifected. 

A little observation on the part of the driver will readily 
detect any irregularity or change in the movement of his horse, 
but just where lies the fault is not so easily determined. If the 
horse is trotted slowly down hill and shows more evident signs 
of lameness than when going on the level, it is an indication of 
high or bruised heels ; again, if more distress is shown in going 
up the grade, long toes are the probable cause. Soreness of the 
shoulder muscles is also betrayed in a dragging movement of 
the toes when going up hill. 

In case these preliminaries are not conclusive, lose no time 
in turning the horse over to some competent farrier. The next 
proceeding is naturally the removal of the horse's shoes to ex- 
amine the soles and hoofs all around, for nail pricks or punc- 
tured wounds and external injuries or bruises of any kind. 
Having closely observed these parts and settled their connection 
with any symptoms of lameness, proceed to examine for internal 
soreness by using my foot testers (Fig. 195), to compress the 



136 SCIENTIFIC HORSESHOEING. 

lower nargin of the wall all around, from toe to heel as high as 
the nr..i hole-.. If there is any soreness in this region the horse 
will flinch or snrink from the pressure, but if nothing is mani- 
fested in this way continue the same process up around the cor- 
onet by gripping it between the base of the hoof in the jaws of 
the tester, same as before. Then if the cause of the trouble or 
its seat still remains in doubt, pursue the investigation to other 
regions of the limb or trunk as recommended for " modification 
of action," page 106. 

Laminitis, or Founder. — Under this double head is ex- 
pressed one of the most insidious of all foot ailments. The 
former gives " a local habitation and a name " to the disease as 
applied to the laminar tissues, while the other recognizes it more 
in effect as indicating the " sinking " or falling of the foot 
structures or the failure of their functional activity as implied 
by the word " foundered," by which name the malady is most 
familiarly known. Its particular character is an inflammation 
of the sensitive laminae, and its general symptoms are so well 
manifested by the impairment of the bodily vigor and power of 
locomotion, or weakness and stiffness in the limbs, accompanied 
with signs of acute pain which the suflering animal attempts ta 
relieve by disposing his weight on the sound members, that its 
presence is not easily mistaken. It may be confined to a limited 
region, or it may involve the entire tissue of one or all four 
feet, though the front feet are the ones most affected. Various 
causes are assigned as productive of this disease, such as drink- 
ing too freely of cold water while overheated, rapid changes 
from heat to cold by exposure to cold wind, rain, or washing the 
feet and legs in cold water when the animal has been violently 
exercised or is exhausted by work, over-exertion and at times 
over-feeding of certain grain, especially corn ; bad shoeing is 
also — here as elsewhere — a prevalent factor by paring out and 
weakening the foot, or by applying high heeled shoes, etc. 



LAMENESS AND DISEASES, ETC. 137 

Primary or Passive Stage. — The early stages of this dis- 
order may consist only of a simple congestion of the sole tissues, 
but as it develops rapidly, if suffered to run its course, the mor- 
bid process will involve other regions in its destructive changes, 
and severe lameness — extremely difficult of cure — or entire 
physical disability will result. The most prompt and efficacious 
treatment should therefore be resorted to at the first symptoms 
of an oncoming attack, as the conditions are then favorable for 
speedy relief, and the disease may be checked or cured in one 
or two days' time. 

When the evidences of soreness or weakness appear, or the 
horse stumbles and shifts his gait by declining to use his feet in 
the natural way, have the farrier remove his shoes and pare the 
sole of the foot thin, that the resistance of the horn may not 
obstruct the after measures, then lightly replace the shoes bj 
tacking them on with two nails on each side. Cover the body, 
neck and legs warmly with several blankets (strapping them on 
closely all around) and place the feet in tubs of warm water — 
heated to a good temperature — which should be kept so by re- 
placing the water as it cools with a warm supply, as in this 
way the return flow of blood will be increased. Warm drinks 
are also recommended to stimulate internal circulation, the con- 
gestion will be overcome or re-absorbed, and by continuing this 
treatment for twenty-four hours, the symptoms will subside and 
the normal functions be practically restored without disorgani- 
zation. 

Acute stage Villitis. — When this form of congestion 
gpreads or progresses into a more acute stage it is attended with 
more evidences of soreness and lameness, evidenced by greater 
unwillingness of the animal's movements as well as by the vari- 
ous positions which it carefully assumes in attempting to allevi- 
ate the distress of weight on the inflamed member. This sec- 
ondary or extended stage is known as villitis, because it is prin- 



138 SCIENTIFIC HORSESHOEING. 

cipally confined to the villous tissue of the sensitive sole ; but the 
point of greatest sensation, is naturally, in the region of the toe, 
where the sole and laminal tissues blend into each other; which 
increases the vessels of that part, hence the sensitive laminae 
may also become congested or inflamed. The treatment for these 
acute cases is the same as for the more passive cases above pre- 
scribed, and usually the symptoms will pass away or recovery 
be accomplished within a comparatively short space of time. 

Imperfect recoveries, however, naturally impair the secre- 
tive powers of the sensitive sole, and thus renders it liable to 
after efi'ects, which may be obviated if properly managed. 

Chronic or Violent Stage. — True laminitis is the sequel 
of the progressive development or culmination of the acute 
stage, when the inflammation becomes general throughout the 
laminae and the tendency to injurious changes of the structures 
become more marked. When this stage of the disease is reached, 
the symptoms are greatly increased and the distress of the animal 
correspondingly intensified. The inability to support weight 
often causes it to lie down, and constitutional disturbance by loss 
of appetite and feverish restlessness are attendant character- 
istics of this phase of the disease. 

The vital connection which these laminae sustain to the en- 
tire animal economy and their situation between the horny hoof 
and the bony structures of the foot, necessarily renders any com- 
pression or inflammation of them one of peculiar injury and 
suflfering to the horse. When thus aflected they are no longer 
able to perform the function of weight bearers, their power of 
withstanding the work imposed on them is lessened, and the 
pressure upon them gradually weakens and destroys their at- 
tachment to the hoof, letting the bones descend upon the sole, 
resulting in that condition of helplessness and disability known 
as " founder." This indicates that when laminitis becomes 
firmly established or deep rooted, various complications are 



LAMENESS AND DISEASES, ETC. 



139 




inevitable. Other organs 
are invaded, the parts af- 
fected become useless and 
the animal either becomes 
an incurable cripple or is 
soon relieved by death. 

This illustration gives 
a correct impression of 
the ravages of laminitis, 
when its processes con- 
tinue to the chronic stage, 
whereby the joints, ten- 
dons and other structures 
of the foot are alike in- 
volved and their functions 
impaired. The disease 
has destroyed the laminal 
connections, a forced sep- 
aration of the parts has 
turned or dished the hoof, 
and depressed the coffin- 
bone upon the sole, which 
has thus become weak, 
thin, and bulged or drop- 
ped downward. The space between the bone and hoof being 
filled with a fungous deposit resembling honey-comb. 

In dressing a foot of the kind shown in Fig. 34, it is first 
necessary to foreshorten the toe as much as can be safely done 
without injury, by rasping around the front and sides and tak- 
ing out the " dish," and restoring the hoof to its natural shape 
as far as possible. In feet of this kind, the sole is thin and weak, 
hence care must be taken that it is not cut or pared in any 
way around the point of the frog. When leveling the wall for 

the shoe, commence at the heels and lower both sides as much 
10 



Fig. 34. median section of a " found- 
ered " FOOT, SHOWING THE SEVERE EFFECTS 
OF CHRONIC LAMINITIS. 

A, Coffin- or pedal-bone. B, Navicular 
bone. C, Lower pastern. D, Upper pas- 
tern bone. E, Sesamoid. F, Lower end of 
cannon bone. G, Horny sole. H, Plantar 
cushion. K, Velvety tissue or sensitive 
sole. M, Wall, dished or turned up toe. 
N, Laminal tissue — the seat of laminitis. 
O, Fungous growth. P, Extensor tendon. 
R, Flexor perforatus. S, Flexor perforans. 



140 



SCIENTIFIC HORSESHOEING. 




Fig. 35. FRONT FOOT SHOE FOR DROPPED 
SOLES AND FOR FLAT, WEAK SOLED FEET. 

A, Bevel on toe from calk to outer rim. 

B, Long toe calk set back from front. 



as can be safely done, and 
this operation must be 
carried forward toward 
the quarters. In some 
cases where the sole is 
badly dropped, it will be 
found impossible to get 
more than two and one 
half to three inches level 
bearing for the shoe. 
When the foot is thus 
prepared apply the style 
of shoe shown in Fig. 
35. 

By having the toe 
set well back on the shoe, 
the center of gravity will 
fall more directly under the bearing of the foot and leg 
bones, and thus the strain will be partly taken off the weak- 
ened laminse. If the foot be too wide at the heels and quar- 
ters, clips should be drawn up on both sides of the shoe, opposite 
the wings of the coffin-bone, that the hoof may be retained from 
further expansion. Clips are not to be used in front; bevel the 
front part of the shoe at the toe on the ground surface in order 
to prevent the horse from stumbling or tripping, Reset the 
shoes every three weeks, by lowering the heels again, and, in 
four or five shoeings, the sole will return to its natural concave 
form. Do not file or rasp the new growth. 

The shoe being nailed solidly at the heels, it will be readily 
seen that the front part being released, and an open space inter- 
vening between the foot and the shoe, the foot will press down 
to meet the shoe at every step which the horse takes forward, 
and just in proportion as the foot springs down, the sole will be 
returned to its natural cup-like form. 



LAMENESS AND DISEASES, ETC. 



141 




Fig. 36. side view of hoof showing 
the effects of springing the shoe off 

THE HEEL. 

A, Lower margin of horny frog. B, Side 
or quarter of wall. C, Cavity for the cor- 
onary cushion. D, Shoe on the hoof. 



DROPPED SOLE CAUSED BY BAD SHOEING. 

Three views from a single specimen. 

The illustrations on 
this and the following page 
are typical examples of 
the condition of a found- 
ered foot, or dropped sole 
resulting from bad shoe- 
ing. 

Springing the shoes 
off the heels, thereby 
breaking down the quar- 
ters will cause such efi'ects, 
especially in large draft 
horses that have low, 
broad heels, and Figs. 36 
and 37 show an instance 
of this kind. It is plain 
that such style of shoeing 
must prove disastrous in 
the extreme, whereas if 
the shoe had been fitted so 
that the heels would have 
corresponded with the 
dotted lines F, F, F, F, 
Fig. 37, the trouble would 
have been avoided. The 
excessive width of this 
foot as compared with its 
length from toe to heel in- 
dicates that the quarters 
have been broken down, 
the heels worn low and 




Fig. 37. bottom view of same hoof. 

A, Cleft of frog. B, Horny frog. C, 
Commissures. D, Bars. F, F, F, F, Dotted 
lines showing where the shoes ought to have 
been fitted to cover the quarters and heels. 
E, E, Bulge of heels pressed through shoe 
by too wide fitting. G, G, Lower face of 
hornv sole. 



142 



SCIENTIFIC HOESESHOEING. 




SIDE VIEW OK COFFIN-RONE OUT OF 

THE FOOT, Figs. 36 and o7. 



become bruised and 
curled under or bulged 
below the shoe, and 
low heels will produce 
a "wheel" foot, such 
as shown in Fig. 36. 
Fig. 38 shows the coffin- 
bone from same foot 
much distorted from its original form by the effects of faulty 
shoeing, as well as of disease resulting from the same. 

Peditis is the term applied to this serious complication of 
laminitis, where not only the lamina but the periosteum and 
the coffin-bone are also subject to the inflammatory process 
which sometimes involves the coffin-joint. 

Depression of the coffin-bone is oftentimes accompanied 
with suppuration, where the separation of the reticulum from 
the bone takes place, and gangrene and superficial caries are 
common results. 

The destructive effects of this disease upon the internal 
structure of the foot are well displayed in this drawing. The 
bone has become much distorted from its original form, from 
the pressure of the part constantly under weight when the sole 
has become dropped; the upper surface has "dished," as it 
were, or fallen in, until only one half its original height, while 
an immense number of small spines or thorn-like spurs have 
grown all over it, and the lower part of the bone has con vexed 
in an extreme degree, bulging down until it had lost all sem- 
blance of its original shape. 

In a preceding chapter instructions have been laid down for 
the management and shoeing of the feet of draft horses, and 
if they are carefully followed the most satisfactory results will 
be obtained. 



LAMENESS AND DISEASES, ETC. 



143 



In paring and dressing such a foot as shown here, the oper- 
ation must be the reverse of that described in Fig. 34, that is 
the height or depth of toe being excessive in this case, it must 
be reduced as much as possible, and the heels left intact. The 
shoe bearings then, thus obtained, being around the front part 
of the shoe, use shoe Fig. 35, but nail around the toe instead of 
at the heels. Or it may be necessary to resort to a bar shoe for 
restoring the foot, but this will depend on the judgment of the 
farrier. 

Seedy Toe. — Among 
the complicated efi'ects 
of chronic laminitis is 
a peculiar dessication 
of the hoof commonly 
known as " Seedy Toe." 
This condition is well 
represented by the ap- 
pearance of Fig. 39, in 
which is also seen the 
evidences of neglect in dressing and leveling the foot. In this 
specimen the wall is twice its natural thickness on the side in 
view, it will be noticed that it is also scarred and seamed with 
rough ridges — due to irregular secretion of horn — while the heel 
is abnormally high, the sole being fully 1^ inches too thick, and 
the toe turns up from an overgrowth at least two inches too 
long. Laminitis does not always involve the whole of the leafy 
tissue — even in the present instance — the morbid process appears 
to have destroyed only certain regions, where the leaves take on 
a regular honey-combed appearance, while other portions pre- 
sent a comparatively sound and healthy structure. But in most 
cases it develops rapidly, and if unchecked, continues to spread 
until the entire region is involved, with structural changes of 
the most serious character. 




Fig. 39. specimen of seedy toe. 



144 



SCIENTIFIC HORSESHOEING. 



For a foot affected in this manner, pare the hoof level and 
as low as possible, rasp the wall thin from coronet to ground 
surface, and get the hoof back near as may be to its natural 
shape. If there is any tenderness in the sole it must be protected 
by using a plain, flat, broad-webbed shoe, well concaved on the 
sole-bearing surface, the nail holes to be punched where the foot 
is least affected, and the shoes reset every two or three weeks. 
It is difficult to describe any particular style of shoe to meet the 
emergencies of such cases, and the farrier must judge what is 
best. Cold water bandages around the coronet will assist in 
keeping the horn moist and allaying fever and pain. 

Fig. 40 illustrates 
the further ravages 
of chronic laminitis, 
in which its destruc- 
tive effects (coupled 
with the mismanage- 
ment of the foot) are 
perhaps more plainly 
discernible. In this 
instance the heels 
have been allowed to 
grow to such an ex- 
tent as to raise them 
far above their nor- 
mal position. The 
normal angle of the 
heel from the ground 
surface to the coronet is the same as the angle of the front part of 
the foot from toe to coronet. In proportion, however, as the 
toe lengthens, just so much will the angle of the ground surface 
of the foot be carried forward, as seen in the above diagram, 
which shows the growth at the back of the quarters to be of 
unusual height, raising the heels up out of their natural angle, 




Fig. 40. another example of seedy toe. 

A, A, Angle of hoof as it stands, 34 degrees. 
B, B, Line to which surplus growth of front wall 
should be removed. C, Cavity for coronary cush- 
ion. D, Horny laminae. E, E, Line to which 
surplus growth should be removed at base. E, J, 
Indicating how much heels will be lowered by 
reducing the base of hoof. F, Point to which 
coffin-bone was wasted. G, Normal extent of 
coffin-bone. H, Line indicating front angle of 
coffin-bone to be 75 degrees (should be 50). I, G, 
Line to which coffin-bone will conform when 
hoof is reduced as directed. 



LAMENESS AND DISEASES, ETC. 



145 




and, as the heels are raised up, just so much the heels of the 
coffin-bone are elevated, and the point of the bone is pressed 
forward against the front part of the foot, preventing the action 
of the secretive powers, bringing on inflammation, burning and 
scalding, and destroying the life of the foot, causing what is 
called seedy toe. In shoeing a foot of this description, great 
care must be taken that none of the sole be removed around the 
point of the frog. Remove the surplus growth from quarters to 
heel as shown by line, E, E. By removing surplus growth the 
heels will be lowered 
as shown from E to 
J, and the pressure 
will be relieved on 
point of coffin-bone. 
Remove the surplus 
growth in front to 
the line B, B, after 
which the foot will 
be placed upon its 
natural angle of 46 
degrees. Compare 
this foot with Fig. 
41. As the sole will 
be quite tender and sore at the point of the frog, the shoe must 
be well concaved around the front. Use shoe shown in Fig. 35. 
Rivet leather at the heels, letting it extend all over the shoe. 
Take fat pickled pork out of the brine, and cutting in slices, cover 
the bottom of the foot well, and then nail on the shoe slightly. 
Afterward stand the horse in a soaking tub of warm water for 
three or four hours. This -w-ill melt the pork, and thus assist in 
speedily removing the soreness. Bear in mind to keep the 
pressure off around the point and sides of toe, and thus give 
great freedom to the diseased parts. Keep the soaking swabs 
•around the coronet wet with warm water. Reset the shoes every 



Fig. 41. the same hoof with one side prop- 
erly PARED AND STRAIGHTENED, AS INDICATED BY 
DOTTED LINES IN FIG. 40. 

A, Effects of disease on horny laminae. B, B, 
Correct angle of toe after removal of surplus 
growth as shown — 46 degrees. C, Cavity for cor- 
onary cushion. D, Horny laminfe. E, Surplus 
growth to be removed on the opposite side. F, 
Elevation of toe of hoof above shoe, to obviate 
pressure. 



146 



SCIENTIFIC HORSESHOEIXG. 



two or three weeks in order to check or keep down the under- 
growth of heels and quarters. 

I have often taken feet when the coffin-bone had worn 
through the sole at its point, and by the above treatment have 
restored them to their normal condition, and they have ever 

afterw^urd remained sound. 

The eflects of chronic 

cases of founder or laminitis 
upon the foot are seen in Fig. 
42 ; and not only the foot, 
but every tendon, joint and 
bone from the knee to the foot 
is seriously efl'ected. These 
evils can be reasonably attrib- 
uted to the want of skillful 
knowledge of horseshoeing and 
of the management of the 
hoof. 

In paring a foot of this 
kind, follow" the instructions 
laid down for paring the flat 
foot ; always bearing in mind 
the necessity of getting and 
keeping the foot in its natural 
position. Use shoe described 
in Fig. 35. 

When describing the lateral cartilages in the chapter on 
"The Foot of the Horse," a brief reference was made to certain 
derangements of their natural structure by process of inflamma- 
tion, through which they lose their soft elastic qualities and are 
changed into bone. Fig. 43 represents a typical case of 
the disease mentioned, which is often met with in prac- 
tice, especially in heavy draft horses, though speed and saddle 
horses and also well-bred carriage horses, are not exempt from 




Fig. 42. 



DISHED FOOT AND DROPPED 
SOLE. 



A, A, Line to which surphis growth 
at toe is to be removed. B,B, Ground 
line to which surplus growth is to be 
reduced from heel to quarter. 



LAMENESS AND J)ISEASES, ETC. 



147 




Fig. 43. coffin-bone with supplemental at- 
tachment OF SIDE BONE OR OSSIFIED LATERAL 
CARTILAGE. 

A, Body of coffin-bone. B, Lower margin of 
its wing. C, Side bone or ossified cartilage sur- 
mounting the wing. 



its attacks, and in 
some instances it is 
hereditary. 

There are num- 
bers of conditions 
which may be the 
excitinsr cause of this 



bony formation ; va- 
rious diseases of the 
foot may occasionally 
involve the connec- 
tive tissues, such as 
ulcered heels and 
laminitis ; but con- 
traction, violent concussion or injuries, and over distension by 
weight, bad shoeing and unlevel feet are the prevailing causes 
of ossific development. The present example is to be classed 
with others resulting 
from bad shoeing, 
and is the outcome 
of the next morbid 
specimen, here intro- 
duced as a dismal 
relic of perverted 
appliances. 

In this case, the 
distorted condition 
of the hoof — the 
twisted heel and cor- 
rugated coronet — the 




Fig. 44. view op the hoof (op right front 

foot) in which THE BONE (FIG. 40) WAS IMBEDDED 
AS INDICATED, BY THE DISTORTION OF THE OUTSIDE 
HEEL. 



diseased appearance 

of the laminfe, and the disorganized character of the whole 

structure generally, are the consistent product of one common 

actor,, namely, an uneven ground-bearing of the foot. To still 



148 



SCIENTIFIC HORSESHOEING. 



further illustrate and explain the subject, I insert here two op- 
posing views of the bones of the front foot and leg in order to 
establish a comparison between the normal and abnormal posi- 
tion of which they are the representations. 



Fig. 45. normal position, front view. 

E, E, Vertical line through axis of 
joints. A, Cannon-bone. B, Upper 
pastern. C, Lower pastern. D, Cof- 
fin-bone. F, F, Inner and outer 
splints. G, G, G, Lower row of knee 
bones. H, H, Upper row. 

The knees and hocks are formed of 
several small bones placed in two 
rows, articulating with the larger bones 
above and below, as shown and de- 
scribed in skeleton, Fig. 2. 




Fig. 46. abnormal position, back 

VIEW. 

A, B, Level to which the foot should 
conform. C, Vertical line locating 
center of axis and indicating the dis- 
placement caused by unlevel base 
of foot throwing the weight on the 
outside heel. D, Coffin-bone. E, 
Navicular. F, Lower pastern. G, 
Upper pastern. H, H, Sesamoids. 
I, Cannon-bone. J, J, Splints (the 
highest one diseased). K, Morbid 
enlargement of upper pastern. L, L, 
Side bones or ossified cartilapf s. 



LAMENESS ANJD DISEASES, ETC. 149 

The parallel of these views is self evident, and but little is to 
said in addition to my former observations on leveling and bal- 
ancing the foot. When the bones and joints are in their natural 
relations, as shown in Fig. 45, the precision and accuracy of their 
functional activity is assured. The weight is carried through 
the normal centers of the limbs, the foot rests naturally, with 
every part of the apparatus sustaining its proper share of the 
burden, and when springing from the ground it is in direct line 
with the median plane of the body, and its movement forward 
and back is as regular as the swing of a pendulum. But when 
the ground-bearing of the hoof is uneven, as shown in Fig. 46, 
the incidence of the muscles is misdirected, the bones and their 
articulations are displaced from the extremity of the limb to its 
union with the trunk, and derangement of the entire structure 
is the inevitable result. To simplify the matter by a further de- 
scription of Fig, 46, it is seen that the base of the foot is not 
level with the line below, and that this deflects the bony column 
out of the perpendicular. Assuming the w^idth of the hoof to 
be four inches, and the distance from the base to the knee to be 
twenty inches, any unevenness, starting at one side or the other of 
the base, increases in the ratio of five to one ; thus, a displacement 
of one-fourth of an inch at the bottom of the foot, will amount 
to a displacement of one and one-quarter inches at the knee. Im- 
proper paring of the hoof is of too frequent occurrence, and this 
illustration is only one of the many serious results following 
from a disregard of the first principles of shoeing. Impaired 
nutrition, diminished and obstructed secretion, abnormal growths 
and structural changes are always associated with it. It is im- 
possible for a horse to spring from the ground or land on it in 
a line w^ith the movements of his body unless his feet are straight 
in that direction and level in their bearings, and from a neglect 
in these regards or want of precaution to secure them, arise 
many maladies of joints, bones, tendons, cartilages, laminae, and 
other structures of the feet and legs. 



150 



SCIENTIFIC horsp:shoeing. 



The structural change of cartilage 
into bone arises from a deposit of lime 
salts, and may be of rapid or slow 
growth. The usual symptoms are 
manifested by the presence of fever- 
heat around the aftected part, attended 
by more or less soreness, stifihess or 
lameness, and as the change advances 
it will be apparent by enlargement and 
by a sense of hardness to the touch. 
This illustration indicates the general 
appearance of a foot in this condition. 
When thus invaded the tendency is to 
^^_ increase, and no permanent cure can 
ANCE OF SIDE BONES WHEN bc cflected as the cartilage tissue can 
DEVELOPED. ^^^^^ ^^ rcstorcd ; but in the early stages 

A, Enlargement of carti- of the disorder the calcification may 
lage transformed into bone. i i i i • i • i 

B, Its effect shown by bulge be arrested and the thickenmg re-ab- 

of wall at heel 




Fig. 47. outside appe 



C, C, Ab- sorbed by the application of a sweat 
blister. There are many variations 



normal height 

D, Extension of side bone 

over pastern. E, Prolonga- of side bones, but the front feet are 

tion of side bone over the ^ r i,i j. a' r j-u tm" 

most liable to suiter Irom them, it 
quarter. 

both cartilages on the same foot are 
attacked at the same time, it is noticeable that they are less liable 
to cause lameness than if but one side is affected. 

My drawings are samples of the development of side bones 
on one side of the foot as a consequence of one heel of the hoof 
being higher or longer — from coronet to base — than the other 
which is provocative of such malformation. 

Where shoeing can be altogether dispensed with it will be 
better for the natural relief of side bones than otherwise, but 
where shoes are necessary they must be made to suit the condi- 
tions of the foot and the nature of the work to be performed. 

In all cases, however, when dressing the foot, follow the di- 



LAMENESS AND DISEASES, ETC. 



151 



rections given for the perfect foot, Fig. 23. This will equalize 
the bearings throughout, then, if the conditions are favorable 
for natural frog pressure, use flat, thin heeled shoes. If only 
one side bone exists, use the three-quarter shoe, Fig. 59, but if 
both sides are alike involved, it is better to insert a simple tip 
around the toe — the object being to place both shoe and nails 
to the best advantage, that all avoidable pressure may be removed 
from the diseased region. Reset the shoes at frequent enough 
intervals to keep the foot true to its natural balance. 

Fig. 48. Thelaminal 
leaves of the horse's foot 
are, as already men- 
tioned, peculiarly sus- 
ceptible to the influ- 
ences of disease, con- 
cussion, injurious burn- 
ing, compression, etc. 
The present subject is 
a characteristic example 
of the evils last named. 
Spurs of the horny 
laminae arise from ex- 
ternal compression up- a, Spur of horny lamina?, produced by clip 
on toe of the wall, and ^" ^^^o^- 

appear upon its inner surface in the form of a hard, callosity of 
varying thickness and length. In the above figure the growth 
has extended the full length of the leaves, imbedding itself 
against the cofiin-bone, which has wasted away as this extra- 
neous growth proceeded. Fig. 49 is a view of the lower 
face of same hoof and completes the story of the case. It shows 
a severely contracted quarter and heel on one side, and a larf!:e 
surplus growth around the front of the other, and all over its 
surface are the visible signs of hot fitting and bad shoeing. The 
bars and frog have been pared away and the stren2:tli of the 




Fig. 48. hoop of draft hoese, ixdicating 
the destructive effects of hot fitting and 
clipping. 



152 



SCIENTIFIC HORSESHOEING. 



iiir' 




foot destroyed, together witb 
its balance. I]i a natural foot 
the frog is the right dividing 
line from heel to toe, but in 
this case the narrow or con- 
tracted side was forced to ac~ 
cept two-thirds of the whole 
weight, as indicated by its rela- 
tive proportions. 

From obstruction to its 
secretions, the sole was deprived 
of its elastic properties, and 
the entire hoof was similarly 
exhausted and reduced to a 
hard, dry condition through- 
out. 

Compare with Fig. 23 and 
remove the surplus growth of 
the full side and supply any lack of ground tread on the con- 
tracted side by carrying the web of the shoe wide enough to 

cover out the de- 
ficiency. 

Figs. 50 and 51 
will serve to still 
further illustrate the 
tendency of hot fit- 
ting and clipping to 
Fig. 50. median section of hoob showing furthek ^^q^j^ destructively 

EFFECTS OF HOT FITTING AND CLIPPING. 

. /^ • r u- -D T „f +oo.,^ upon mner struct- 

A, Cavity for coronary cushion. B, Leafy tissue r 

of horny laminse. C, Side of internal fissure. D, ures of the foot. 
Section of bulb of plantar cushion. E, Section of Clippino- is not 

horny sole at margin of coffin-bone. P, Section of _ ^ _ . * 

horny sole at point of frog. G, Section of horny injurious if properly 
frog. H, H, Section of spur of horny laminte. I, ^Q■^^Q Skillful far- 
Fungous deposit at toe. J, Section of wall at toe. 
K, K, Height ot wall at toe, angle 45 degrees. "ers can resort ta 



Fig. 49. bottom of same hoop, as in 
FIG. 48, showing contraction from 

QUARTER TO HEEL ON ONE SIDE, AND AN 
OVERGROWTH FROM QUARTER TO TOE ON 
THE OTHER. 




LAMENESS AND DISEASES, ETC. 



153 




this expedient for a lifetime with- 
out injury to the foot ; but in the 
hands of ignorant men, a horse 
shod by this method is subject to 
certain injury. In general I do 
not hesitate to say from practical 
experience that I believe hot fit- 
ting and clipping injurious if the 
feet have lost their proper angle. 
In the endeavor to accommodate 
shoes that are too short for the 
feet for which they are intended, 
ignorant and unskilled farriers 
often cut out the front of the foot 
until they draw blood, then burn 
in the clip so as to stop the flow 
of blood, and worse than all, 
hammer the clip back into the 
foot. 

The result of such malpractice is to cause the heat to pene- 
trate into the sensitive parts, dry up the secreting nourishment 
and cause an unnatural compression against the insensitive 
laminpe at their union with the sensitive laminae around the 
lower margin of the toe. Fever sets in, drying up and destroy- 
ing the parts under compression, and the formation of a de- 
cayed, pithy, horny substance is the result. 

But in addition to clips, there are many other spur-produc- 
ing causes, which for want of space can not be defined in the 
present work. Mere mention, however, may be made of a few 
that have come under my notice, such as the driving of large, 
thick-bladed nails into thin shells. This, it is true, may not 
lay up the horse, but the spur which will result will make him 



Fig. 51. upper face op coffin- 
bone, SHOWING EFFECTS OF HOT 
FITTING AND CLIPPING. 

A, A, Extensions or wings of 
heels. B, Eminence on which is in- 
serted the extensor tendon. C, C, 
Lateral faces. D, Groove worn 
by spur. E, Depth to which this 
groove sometimes extends. F, F, 
Margin to which the bone should 
conform. G, G, Articular surface 
of coftin-joint. 



154 SCIENTIFIC HORSESHOEING. 

tender footed, and if not at once remedied, the trouble will in 
time become aggravated. In a word, any improper manage- 
ment of the foot tending to produce an unnatural compression 
of the insensitive and sensitive laminse, thereby destroying or 
preventing the action of the secretive powers, will cause the 
formation of a spur, large or small, which, if not attended to, 
will in the end develop to the great injury of the foot and the 
horse. I have in my possession many specimens of hoofs in 
which spurs are present, and an examination of them will show 
conclusively the cause of the spur in each case. 

Diagnosis for spur in the toe, and its causes, will show the 
horse to be restless on his front feet, stretching or pointing first 
one foot forward, then the other, and this action always ,in- 
dicates trouble of some kind in the front part or toe of the 
foot. If a decayed, pithy, horny substance, as shown in Figs. 
48 and 50, be found, it should be probed and cut out as deeply 
as safety will admit, being careful not to draw blood. Fill the 
cavity with my foot salve, prescribed in the latter part of this 
book. Finally apply a shoe suitable for flat feet, care being 
taken to keep the pressure ofi" the toe, as elsewhere shown. If 
for a draught horse, use shoe. Fig. 35. Dress the foot to make 
it conform as near as possible to Fig. 23, and follow the direc- 
tions given for that purpose. It will be found impossible to 
straighten the foot at once, as the new growth proceeds slowly 
from the coronet. File or rasp the outside crust in front from 
coronet to ground surface, as that will tend to release the in- 
ternal structures from pressure. Apply hot-water bandages 
around the coronet, for the purpose of stimulating a new 
growth. 

Contraction is almost always the result of improper shoeing 
and mismanagement of the foot, primarily due to overgrowth of 
the hoof at toe and heels. At times the shoes remain on too 



LAMEXESS AND DISEASES, ETC. 



155 




Fig. 52. C(ixtuacteu hoof. 

A, Spur of frog forced above level of coro- 
uary band. B, B, Bars forced above level 
of coronary band. C, C, Abnormal height 
of heel from coronet to ground surface. 



long and the growth of 
hoof becomes excessive, 
or the horse may be al- 
lowed to stand in his stall 
in hot dry weather with- 
out sufficient exercise, 
whereby his feet become 
dry, hard and feverish, 
and such conditions are 
exciting causes of contrac- 
tion, and horses thus af- 
fected are also more apt 
to stumble and cut themselves than w^ould otherwise be the case. 
Fig. 52 shows a contracted hoof pro- 
duced by an abnormally high wall. The 
appearance of the same hoof on its ground 
surface is represented in Fig. 53. The 
base of the hoof had wired together un- 
til the bars and spur of frog were raised 
above the level of the coronary band, 
against which the coffin-bone was also 
compressed by being forced upward, im- 
peding or altogether stopping the func- 
tional activity of the vascular tissues, and 
causing a calcareous deposit or bony 
formation around the coronary cushion, 
producing stiffness in the foot joints. By 
the contraction across the quarters, the 
foot was relatively elongated, the heels 




Fig. 53. lower face of 
same hoof. 



A, A, A, A, Abnormal 
height of heels from coro- 
net to base. B, DifTerence 
in height of heel at coro- 
net. F, F, Contracted 
across quarters. C, Cun- 

the frog, as it were in a vise, between the tracted cleft. D, D, Con- 
tracted bulbs at frog. 
E, E, Contracted quarter 

of the foot. Contraction may be easily at base. 
11 



narrowing and closing the commissures 
with an overgrowth of sole, and pinching 
the frog, as it were in a vise, between the 
bars, destroying all the expansive powers 



156 



SCIENTIFIC HORSESHOEING. 



avoided or overcome by proper care of the feet and right meth- 
ods of shoeing. The main feature is to keep the feet as near as 
possible to their natural shape, and this can only be done by 
leveling and balancing them as directed in Chap. IV. 

The complica- 
tions brought about 
by contraction in- 
clude not only the 
effects visible on the 
external parts of the 
hoof, as shown in 
the preceding Figs. 
52 and 53, but its 
tendency is to work 
many destructive 
changes in the ap- 
paratuses of the in- 
ternal foot, as is 
here partially indi- 
cated by Fig. 54, 

which represents 
Fig. 54. median section of foot, showing dis- i j. i 

PLACEMENT CAUSED BY CONTRACTION. ^ displacement Ol 

A. Coffin-bone. B, Navicular. C, Lower pastern. *^® ^^^3^ ^^^^^^^^^^^ 
D, Upper pastern. E, Lower end of cannon. F, Sec- from such cause. 
tion of velvety tissue. G, Section of wall, ^^^ec ^^^^^^^^^^^^^^_ 
tion of liorny sole. I, Section of horny frog. 

K, Fragment of plantar cushion. L, Horny laminte. tracts and wires 
M, Sensitive laminae. N, N, Extensor tendon. ^^^^^ ground the 
O, O, Flexor perforatus. P, P, Flexor perforans. 

R, Sesamoid hgament. S, Sesamoid bone (dotted base, the sole and 
line). T, T, Branching of flexor perforatus. 1, Pyr- fro o- are forced up- 
amid of coffin-bone displaced. 2, Its normal posi- * 
tion. 3, Normal position of coffin-joint. ward, together with 

the bones and other 

organs of the foot, until they are all tightly cramped by the 

closing in of the horny box. The unnatural pressure around 

the sole inflames the various tissues, causing a disease of the 




LAMENESS AND DISEASES, ETC. 157 

sensitive sole, called villitis, which may diffuse itself to the 1am- 
inse, producing laminitis ; and this progressing may involve the 
coronary cushion in a process of hardening and thickening which 
may terminate in coronitis — an ossification of this organ (simi- 
lar to that of the lateral cartilages when side bones are forming), 
which may be plainly felt when examination is made around the 
coronet at the quarters. No definite rule can be given for shoe- 
ing that would cover all cases of contraction ; the farrier must 
be governed by his understanding of the case confronting him. 
Good judgment will direct that the hoof must be reduced and 
pared low as necessary to bring it to a good level bearing, as per 
Fig. 23, foreshortening the toe within the limits of safety. If 
the frog is hard and dry, pare it level with the wall and open 
up the commissures along the sides of frog and remove the horny 
sole to its union with the wall by thinning it until serum 
exudes, as this will give freedom to the action of the frog. Also 
if the heels are curled under (like an in-growing toe nail) open 
them up as deep as can be safely done, and in thus giving ex- 
pansion to the bottom of the hoof, it will relax at the top and 
allow the necessary freedom at the coronet for the structures to 
assume their normal relations. After dressing the foot, apply 
the raised split-bar shoe, Fig. 154, as this will assist in expanding 
the hoof. Rivet a good solid piece of leather at the heels of 
the shoe to cover the bottom of the foot, then fill the bottom of 
the foot with a warm application of my foot salve, covering the 
same with an overlay of cotton or oakum, then nail on the shoe 
and leather pad and keep pressure off' around the front part of 
the toe. After shoeing let the horse stand with both front feet 
in tubs of warm water (to fully cover the feet eight or ten inches) 
for two hours a day until soreness disappears. Reset the shoes 
every two weeks, pare the growth off' the base of the hoof and 
keep the sole thin so as to allow it to spring under the weight of 
the body ; at the same time have the feet washed around the cor- 
onet daily with warm water and castile soap (as described in 



158 



SCIENTIFIC HORSESHOEING. 



prescription No. 1), and the horse may be worked right along 

without hindrance. 

This specimen rep- 
resents the efi'ects of 
contraction by having 
the wall grow too deep, 
the heels wiring in un- 
til they came together, 
from coronet to ground 
surface, and the foot 
was hardly more than 
half its natural diame- 
ter. The heels over- 
lapping each other had 
crowded the bars, frog 
and inner spur up above 




Fig. 55. Mule's hoof showing effects of 
overgkowth producing contraction. 

A, A, Line to which overgrowth should be 
removed at base. 55° indicates the present angle the coronarv band As 
of hoof. '45° indicates the angle to which it 
will conform when surplus growth, B, is re- fl^^ crowding ot the 

"^oved. hsiTS thus necessitated 

a displacement of the internal structure, the coffin-bone was 
raised behind, the weight presses it forward against the laminre. 
The laminae in this part being 
overtasked, soreness and finally 
lameness ensues. 

In many instances the mule 
is treated for lameness or strains, 
when the proper remedy was to 
have had his feet properly dressed 
and suitably shod. Do not per- 
mit the heels to grow to an ex- 
treme height, pare them down as 
much as can be safely done. 

In shoeing a foot of this 
description, open the heels and Fig. 56. mule shoe. 




LAMENESS AND DISEASES, ETC. 



159 



weaken them at both sides of the commissures, as thin as safety 
will permit ; keep pressure off the toe. In shoeing for drafting 
purposes, toe and heel calkins will be required. In such cases, 
have them low, and of the same height, that the foot may be 
kept as close to the ground as possible, and the animal will 
travel with more ease and safety. Let the shoes be adjusted in 
a manner so as to fit the wall ; and to avoid the possibility of 
cramping the foot, use small nails, wnth the nail holes straight 
punched and driving so as to take a low, short, thick hold. Re- 
set the shoes every three or four weeks. 

The horse's hoof, as described 
in Chap. Ill, is so constructed that 
any exertion may be best carried 
on by a given elasticity from the 
center of the toe, as the fulcrum 
of a reciprocating motion or 
spring around each side to the 
heels. Should the natural con- 
ditions of the foot be altered, 
however, by being deprived of 
sufficient moisture to preserve in 
it that degree of combined tough- 
ness and flexibility, the foot loses 
its power to yield to pressure and 
return, and when force sufficient 
to overcome its resistance is ex- 
erted, the hoof, no longer capable of springing to it, suddenly 
gives way by splitting. 

This breakage occurs wherever the strain is the greatest — 
at either of the sides from the quarters to the heel, or directly 
through the middle of the hoof in front. 

The condition generally present, then, in the splitting of 
the horny hoof, is a hard, dry, brittleness, and this may arise in 




Fig. 57. front view of the hoof 
properly dressed for toe crack. 



160 SCIENTIFIC HORSESHOEING. 

a variety of causes. Hot fitting and clipping, as well as high 
toes and heels on shoes which prevent the frog from coming in 
contact with the ground, high heels on foot or shoe, flat feet and 
long toes on draft horses, and the paring away of the frog, sole, 
bars and heel, whereby the foot becomes contracted, are pro- 
lific sources for bringing the hoof into the above-mentioned 
state. 

Any horse whose feet are thus placed is exposed to fracture 
either on their anterior or lateral surfaces. With these condi- 
tions toe crack is produced by the foot acquiring an uneven 
ground surface, and being thrown into an unnatural or forced 
position. If the heel of the foot, through ignorance or neglect, 
is suffered to grow to an unusual height, the pressure and thrust 
of the coffin-bone against the front wall will almost surely result 
in fracturmg it in that region. A peculiar accident to which 
horses are sometimes liable, will also produce the same result. 
When a horse, being shod with heel calkins, overreaches him- 
self, that is, treads on his hoof with another foot, and bruises 
the coronet or crust, the crease thus made oftentimes extends 
itself until the crust is split from the coronet to the ground 
surface. 

Toe cracks most generally attack the feet of heavy draft 
horses, doubtless owing to the coarse method of applying their 
shoes, as well as a greater stress being placed upon their toes 
than upon those of other horses in the exertions of drawing 
heavy loads. 

In treating this disease, the first care must be to thoroughly 
cleanse the foot, after which the crack must be pared out 
smoothly on either side, as deep as the horny substance extends, 
thus widening the crevice so as to prevent all friction between 
the separated parts of the wall. Pressure must be taken en- 
tirely off the toe, and a groove, as in the accompanying figure, 
should be cut into the bottom of the crust at the toe. 



LAMENESS AND DISEASES, ETC. 



161 



Having done this, if the foot be contracted at the heel, 
pare it to a level. The toe of the foot is then in turn to be 
shortened and the heel weakened by paring out the commissures 
between the bars and frog as much as, in the judgment of the 
farrier, the foot can safely bear. The pattern of shoe represented 
by Fig. 85 should be used upon the horses intended for draft 
purposes, the nails being placed from the front of the quarters 
back toward the heel. Clips should be used upon each side 
of the toe of the shoe, so that when placed upon the foot on each 
side of the fracture, they will prevent the foot from further ex- 
pansion, by keeping the pressure off from the toe, as shown in 
Fig. 57. The toe calkin being placed well back from the 
toe, lightens the stress at the point where the greatest weakness 
exists, and allows of an easier play to the foot when in motion. 
"When the split occurs in the foot of a general business horse, 
lower the heel and shorten the toe, as much as safety will 
permit, and thin the heel of the shoe to obtain strong frog 
pressure, removing the 
pressure around the toe of 
the foot as before directed. 



Quarter Cracks. — 
Quarter cracks are longi- 
tudinal fissures in the 
hoof, occurring near the 
heels. They are gener- 
ally occasioned by im- 

FlG. 58. A SIDE VIEW OF THE FOOT, WITH 

proper shoeing, or neglect crack opposite the wings of the coffin- 
of the foot; or by allow- ^°^'^ ^■^'' pkoperly dressed and the shoe 

ADJUSTED, THE TOE BEINQ ROLLED OR BEV- 

mg the horse to stand on j^^ed, and the heel properly cut for the 
hard floors for a leno;th of bearings at the quarter. 
time, or in the overgrowth of the crust ; or when the frog, sole and 
bars have been pared away, and the heels weakened ; also by 
burning the foot in shoeing, or springing the shoe off at the heel, 




162 



SCIENTIFIC HORSESHOEING. 




and throwing the weight 
of the horse upon the 
wings of the coffin-bone 
— the hoof becoming dry 
and brittle — are some of 
the causes which produce 
a disposition in the hoof 
to contract, which, oc- 
curring at a time when it 
is dry and inflexible, re- 
sults in its lesion or split- 
ting. In speedy horses, 
where the heels are al- 
lowed to grow too high, 
Fig. 59. a hoop properly shod for the ^^^ ^^^^^ loosing its elastic 

CURE OF A QUARTER CRACK, THE SHOE BEING " 

WELL BEVELED AT THE TOE, AND CUT OFF IN tOUghnCSS, aud bCCOming 

THE BRANCH, FORWARD OF THE SEAT OF LAME- YxSiTCl aud thickcUed, thcrC 

NESS AT A. . ,. , .,. , , 

IS liability, by the re- 
peated jar of alighting on his heels in violent action, to burst 
in the quarters — the break occurring where the stress falls heav- 
iest, back of the heel, or at either or on both sides. 

In paring a foot of this kind, reduce the wall (especially at 
the heels), as much as the safety of the foot will permit. The 
next object is to remove the contractile disposition in the hoof, 
by rasping it at the quarters until an appearance of serum, after 
which open both sides of the crack with a drawing knife, so 
that friction of the fractured parts may be avoided. Then rasp 
or cut out the bottom of the crack so that no part of it may 
bear upon the shoe. After the wall has been lowered, should 
the frog project below the bottom of the foot, pare it flat. By 
80 doing, the frog will be aided in growing wider, and assist 
the foot in expanding. When the cracks occur well back at the 
heels, I sometimes find it necessary to protect the weak parts 
from the violence of concussion by applying a bar shoe. Com- 



LAMENESS AND DISEASES, ETC. 163 

mence thinning the shoe at the center of the quarters, and carry- 
ing it off both toward the heels and toe, having the shoe light 
and the bar good and wide, to obtain strong frog pressure. 
When the cracks occur opposite the wings of the coffin-bone, 
level the foot and shorten the toe as much as can be conveniently 
done. If the crack occurs on one side only, use the shoe shown 
by Figs. 58 and 59, allowing for strong frog pressure. If cracks 
happen on both sides, shoe with a three-quarter tip. File or rasp 
the wall on both sides of the crack, from coronet to the ground 
surface, as thin as safety will permit. If toe and heel calkins 
are required, apply a four-calkin shoe, well rolled on the ground 
surface. If the foot be sore and tender, my foot salve may be 
used with advantage, by w^arming and saturating with it a 
pledget of cotton, and applying it to the affected parts, securing 
same with a bandage. A new growth of horn may also be 
stimulated by keeping the hoof moist with cold-water bandages 
around the coronet. Remove the shoes every three weeks, in 
order to prevent an excessive growth of horn. By following 
these instructions, this form of disease may be easily cured and 
the horse regularly worked. 

Corns. — There are several forms in which these trouble- 
some growths manifest themselves, though their cause and loca- 
tion are generally the same. 

The seat of corns is always in the sole of the foot, or its 
lower connection with the wall and generally in the posterior 
portion of the hoof, at or in the angle made by the wall in its 
return to form the bars. 

Fig. 60, on the following page, shows, however, that corns 
do not always come in the heels. The letters, A, A, show three 
hard, callous corns bulging up in the inner sole, at point of frog, 
producing tenderness and lameness around the toe. 

The primary cause of all corns in the horse's foot is an un- 
even ground surface, resulting either from the improper level- 



164 



SCIE]VTIFIC HORSESHOEING, 




Fig. 60. inside view of 
HOOF, showing effects of 

DROPPED SOLE AND HARD 
CORNS. 



ing of the foot by the farrier or its 
previous neglect. Let the foot always 
be pared level, and the shoe properly 
adjusted to the wall, and corns will 
find no abiding place in feet possessed 
of these conditions. 

To determine where the seat of 
lameness is, take my foot testers (Fig. 
195), and clasp around the union of sole 
and wall. If the horse does not flinch 
or yield, grasp the foot at point of 
frog. If he yields to the pressure, thin 
the sole at that point. On close ex- 
amination you will find a hard, callous 



A, A, Seat of hard callous 
corn. B, B, Coronary band. 
C, Dotted line from coronet substance, somewhat resembling the 

to ground surface at toe, j^^rd corn on the human foot. Pare 

showing shallow wall due to 

wasting away of toe from hot the sole at this point quite thin, so as 

fitting and clipping. D, D, ^o allow it to Spring when the horse is 

Internal fissures. E, Ridge 

of internal spur. F, Front bearing his weight on the foot ; this 

face of wall. -will give relief at once. Apply shoe. 

Fig. 35, to the foot, and punch nail holes in shoe to meet the 
conditions of the foot. It may be advisable to poultice the bot- 
tom until soreness is removed. 

Hard corns are protuberances growing upon the inner sole, 
at its junction with the horny laminae, and lie beneath, as well 
as at the side and rear of the foot bone. They consist of a 
hardened excrescence of the skin, which crowds in upon the 
sensitive surfaces, and thus become the source of much trouble 
and pain. The corn may be generated by severe contusions upon 
the inner sole, but it generally arises from a lateral compression 
of the horny hoof inward upon the sensitive parts.- 

The vertical pressure of the horse's weight upon the foot 
bone is oftentimes so severe, and its winged extremities are 
pressed down upon the underlying tissues of the sensitive sole 



LAMENESS AND DISEASES, ETC. 165 

SO suddenly and forcibly as to bruise them against the borny sole 
or sboe without. The bruise thus established develops tbe wet 
or sappy corn, which consists of an efiusion of blood or serum 
into the pores of tbe horn, marking its location by leaving a 
stain upon the outer sole. When tbe stain appears dark, and is 
easily removed by paring away, the corn is old and working out, 
but when the stain appears bright and ruddy, by penetrating 
further into the horn, the corn is new and needs attention. 
These corns may be aggravated by additional injury, and ter- 
minate in a more serious form, known as the suppurative, in 
which case the sensitiveness will be greatly increased, causing 
intense pain, and, as a necessary consequence, acute lameness, or 
finally resulting in laying the foundation for a quittor. 

In preparing the foot for the shoe, if the horn should ex- 
hibit signs of moisture or discoloration, caused by the exudation 
of a sappy or wet corn, open the center of the part indicated, 
and gradually remove the sole, until the foreign matter is re- 
leased. The foot must next be dressed down until it acquires a 
perfectly level basis. For draft horses, let the toe be shortened 
and the heels lowered; apply a shoe with toe and heel calkins, 
the toe calkin to be set well back from the front of the shoe, as 
seen in Fig. 35, and relieve the pressure at the heels. For horses 
of general business and road purposes, pare the foot as low down 
as safety will admit, shorten the toe, and cut the shoe ofi' on the 
side in front of the corn, as seen in Figs. 58 and 59 ; but if the 
corn be established on both sides, shoe with a three-quarter tip, 
in order that the shoe may not come as far back as the aflected 
parts. In some cases it may be advisable to use a four-calkin or 
bar shoe, as determined by the judgment of the farrier. 

Navicular Disease. — The navicular bone, from its position 
in the center of the foot, and the important protection which it 
receives from the surrounding surfaces, is seldom visited by dis- 
ease or disturbed by accident. It is protected at either end by 



166 



SCIENTIFIC HORSESHOEING. 




Fig. 61. hoof, showing the external char- horn\" fro2^ 

ACTER OP NAVICULAR DISEASE. 



A, A, Base or ground line over the center of 
the quarters. B, B, Upper edge of the coronet. 
C, C, Falling in of the hoof opposite the seat 
of disease. The white line across the hoof indi- 
cates the superfluous growth of the hoof, and 
the extent to which it should be reduced. 



the wall and wings and 
cartilages of the coffin- 
bone and on its upper 
face by the lower pas- 
tern bone, and beneath, 
where lies the greatest 
possibility of accident, 
it is guarded by the 
flexor perforans, the 
plantar cushion and 
(See Fig.. 
5, and read the anatomy 
of the parts mentioned.) 
In this disease the 
flexor perforans be- 
comes ulcerated where 
it slides over the under 
face of the navicular bone (at times involving the sesamoid 
sheath in the process), and the severe pain experienced is from 
its play over the rough, diseased portion of that bone. This 
disease is sometimes inherited, but once contracted, is incurable ;; 
a great deal may be done, however, to ease the animal. Two- 
thirds of the cases of this malady, I believe, 
are caused by improperly dressing the foot, 
cutting the frog away, weakened the bars, 
and thinning the sole; and then driving Fig. 62. diseased na- 
over uneven roads, provoking inflammation "^'icular bone, taken 

. n 1 f from THE HOOF (FiG. 

m the tissues and membranes of the foot, qi^ one-half size. 
which "finally communicates itself to the a, Diseased portion 
bones and their attachments with one an- ^^ bone, 
other. 

The above (Fig. 61) represents the back view of a hoof 
showing the effects of navicular disease by the shrinkage of the 
outer wall upon the living parts of the foot, immediately below 




LAMENESS AND DISEASES, ETC. 



167 



the coronary band, crowding the cartilages in and stopping in 
a measure the circulation. The foot become dry, hard and 
feverish and the wall thick and deep. The white line across the 
heel shows where the foot should be reduced around the base. 
When the disease becomes well established, the horse manifests 
it by continual restlessness, standing on one foot and holding 
the other backward, with heel elevated and toe touching the 
ground, or by twisting the toe out and resting the heels of one 
on the coronet of the other; and by constantly shifting and 
flexing the fetlock and knee. 

Not one-third of the cases of navicular disease which have 
come under my observation are chronic ; and, indeed, many cases 
which are thus wrongly termed should be considered only nav- 
icular joint lameness, w^hich if allowed to run might become 
chronic, but are curable if taken in time. 

In dressing the foot 
for the shoe, proceed as 
per Fig. 23, then, after 
properly leveling and bal- 
ancing it, open up the 
commissures and pare out 
the sole within safe limits. 
If the frog projects above 
the heel, pare it flat on the 
ground tread. In most 
instances the bar shoe 
shown in Fig. 63 can be 
used with satisfactory re- 
sults, it can be easily yig. 63. bak shoe for navicular disease. 
made, being of the same a, Plate welded ou the shoe over the seat 
thickness in both branches ^^ navicular disease. B, Roll or bevel at the 

toe. 
from the heel to the cen- 
ter of the quarters ; in front of the quarters it is gradually 
thinned, and at the toe it is rolled or beveled, as indicated at B. 




168 SCIENTIFIC HORSESHOEING. 

After the shoe is prepared for the foot, a thin plate of steel 
must be welded on level with the face of the shoe, as represented 
at A. The plate being placed directly over the seat of the dis- 
ease, will protect the affected parts from any evil results of se- 
vere concussion. The bar thus placed must not bear upon the 
frog, as frog pressure would have a tendency to aggravate the 
disease. An open space of considerable depth must be suffered 
to exist between the plate and the foot, sufficient to permit the 
removal of dirt, etc., w^hich may secrete itself. 

Rivet a firm piece of leather under the heels of the shoe to 
cover the bottom of the foot, which fill with my foot salve as- 
prescribed. Have heel calks welded on both side branches of 
the shoe, to be about 1^^ inches long, tapering the shoe gradually 
from heel to toe and of good height at heel point, say ^ inch. 

Elevating the heels will lessen the friction on the fiexor ten- 
don in its play over the diseased bone, and the action of the foot 
joint will be firmer. After nailing on the shoe stand the horse 
in soaking tubs of warm water, two hours a day for a week or 
ten days, together with warm water bandages around the coro- 
net. By having the shoe rolled on the ground surface in front 
of the quarters to the toe, the horse will get over the toe with 
the least possible strain on the affected parts. The shoe should 
extend as well back at the heel as can be safely worn, and by 
this manner of shoeing much relief will be aflbrded. Reset the 
shoes every two or three weeks to keep down the surplus growth 
on ground tread. 

Raised Coronet. — This disease implies a violent alteration 
of the coronary band at the heel ; consequent upon either side 
of the heel being uneven on the ground surface. This position 
of the hoof is fully shown in Fig. 64, on the opposite page. 

This complaint arises from mismanagement of the foot, and 
its continuance is owing to bad shoeing. In slight cases, when 
a horse is let run at grass without shoes, it will generally be 



LAMENESS AND DISEASES, ETC. 



169 



found sufficient to ef- 
fect a cure. In obsti- 
nate cases, however, 
or when the horse 
travels or works regu- 
larly, recourse must be 
had to a careful plan 
for dressing the foot 
and shoeing it. 

In such cases, in 




Ficx. 64. 



D, Inner spur twisted and deformed. 



BACK GROUND SURFACE VIEW OF RAISED 
CORONET. 

(In dressing foot, see Diagram No. 41, p. 145.) 

A, A, Line of ground surface. B, Base of 

order to restore the foot raised heel. C, C, Difference in height of the 

, ., . , , I,-, sides of the heel indicated at the coronet, 

to its natural healthy 

state, the mode of ob- 
taining levels I have pointed out must be attended to, see Fig. 
23. The higher part of the heel is then to be reduced, but the 
strength of the foot on this side must otherwise be carefully 
preserved, that it may be sufficiently firm to make up as much 
as possible for the deficiency of the full heel. On the other 
hand the raised or twisted side must be weakened as much as 
can be conveniently done, so that it will readily yield to the 
pressure of the animal's weight ; the sole and bars being carefully 
thinned, gradually lessening the paring as the toe is approached. 
The shoe which is applied should be cut off on the side where 
the crust turns up, that that part may not be exposed to any 
pressure from it. 

If the shoe is applied in the manner indicated, the nails 
being placed in the quarter of the high side, and stopped at 
the toe of the raised side, the crust on that side, it is observed, 
will be kept at a considerable distance from the ground. 

The flexibility which the horn possesses, therefore, allowing 
it to yield in a small degree whenever the horse's weight is 
thrown upon it, gradually restores the foot to its natural con- 
dition without the liability of further pain. Whenever the 
hoof appears to be too dry and hard, or to have lost its pliancy^ 



170 



SCIENTIFIC HORSESHOEING. 



it may be kept moist by applying several folfls of flannel round 
the coronet constantly wetted with warm water, also by having the 
horse stand in warm soaking tubs for two or three hours a day. 

While Fig. 65 is 
introduced in order to 
illustrate the extent to 
which disease may ef- 
fect a foot through any 
mismanagement, it is 
not proposed to suggest 
any cure for such an 
affection ; but rather to 
state that, by careful 
attention to the prepa- 
ration and shoeing of a 
foot, such diseases may 
be avoided. It is the 
moral of the old but 
true adage, that " an 
ounce of prevention is 

A, A, Dotted line, to which surplus growth at worth a pound of cure." 
toe should be removed. B, B, Dotted line, to 
which surplus growth at heel should be re- 
moved. C, Wall of foot. 




Fig. 65. external appearance of hoof de- 
formed BY PEDITIS, AND OVERGROWN BY NEG- 
LECT. 



Fig. 66, on the op- 
posite page, is a section 
of the preceding figure, 
through axis of leg from front to rear. The unnatural position 
of the foot is noticeable ; the surplus growth at the heel has 
raised it out of position, and the decayed coffin-bone is evidently 
due to peditic degeneration. This is regarded as the very best 
illustration of this disease in print, and speaks for itself. 



Dished-wheel Foot. — Fig. 67, page 172. To shoe a 
foot of this kind file or rasp the surplus growth on the 
dished side from B to C, C, and the surplus growth at 
base from D to J). Open up the curled heel overlapping 



LAMENESS AND DISEASES, ETC. 



171 



the cleft of the frog 
from E to E, as deeply 
as the horn extends. 
In fitting the shoe, the 
weight must be equal- 
ized through the axis 
of the leg and foot 
when placed on the 
ground, as shown in 
Fig. 26. 

If toe and heel 
calkins are required, 
use shoe, Fig. 73, let- 
ting the toe calkin ex- 
tend over the curled 
line. The shoe must 
gradually widen from 




Fig. 66. median section of same foot as 
Fig. 65, showing the destructive effects of 
peditis in the disorganization of the living 
structures. 

B, B, and B, B, Dotted lines to which sur- 



C, Remains of imperfect horn. D, Fragment 
of dead coffin-bone. E, Navicular bone. F, 
Lower pastern. G, Upper pastern. H, I, J, 
Withered tendons. K, Slight insertion of flexor 
perforans. L, Plantar cushion. M, Bulb of 
horny frog, N, Base of hoof ou opposite side. 



quarters to heel so as plus growth at toe and heel should be removed, 
to cover the heel up 
close to side of frog. 
Place side heel calkin 
on as shown in dia- 
gram ; the projecting 

toe calk and side heel calkin will serve to widen the ground 
tread on the dished side. 

The shoe must be beveled from the foot surface on the angle 
of the foot so as to assist in gaining ground tread. Forge a 
clip on the quarter of shoe on curled side ; the clip will hold the 
shoe firmly to the side of the foot, and as the foot grows, the 
shoe will carry the foot to the curled side. 

If fiat shoes are required, use non-paddling shoe. Fig. 124. 

The shoe upon curled side should have the nail holes punched 

outwardly, so as to take a short, thick hold, to avoid cramping 

the foot. Have the shoes reset every two or three weeks. If 

12 



172 



SCIENTIFIC HORSESHOEING. 




Fig. 67. back view of distorted dished 
quarter and curled keel. 
A, A, Center line through frog. B, B, 
Angle of dished quarter, as the foot stands, 
55 degrees. C to C, Line denoting por- its natural angle 



the above instructions are 
carried out, the foot will be- 
come straight and natural. 

The dished foot shown 
on page 173 is a result of 
overgrowth of the hoof. 
The toe is lengthened and 
the heel raised in such a way 
as to throw the foot out of 
This pro- 



tion of dished quarter to be filed or rasped ^^^^g ^^ unnatural pressure 
oflFon one side, and the extension of shoe 

on the other side to give proper width of at the toe, on the ground 

ground tread, and make angles on both guj-face, and at the coronet, 
sides the same — 75 degrees. D,D, Ground • i. • 

line to which base of hoof is to be reduced, thus preventing the action 

E, E, Curled heel overlapping center of of the secretive powers ; 
cleft of frog, also showing where heel is i ■ n ^- 

to be opened with the farrier's knife as ^ore or less inflammation 

deeply as the curled horn extends. F, sets in and as the internal 
Horny sole deeply concaved G,C Shows ^^^^^^ ^^^ ^^^^^ 

distance inner quarter IS curled under cen- ^ •' 

ter of foot on ground-bearing surface. wall conforms to the inside. 

It has been observed that if 
the foot be allowed to remain in thi's condition for any length 
of time, the upper pastern becomes enlarged, which to me is 
conclusive proof that it has been overtaxed. 

Horses accustomed to slow work do not suffer from this as 
much as road and track horses. When the heel and toe are al- 
lowed to grow to an unusual height and length, the angle of the 
heel with the ground line is carried forward under the leg, thus 
causing the weight to be thrown out of the axis of the leg and 
foot ; and when the horse is at full speed, the height of his heels 
prevents the natural expansion of the foot, from heel to quarters, 
at each foot fall, and he lands his foot upon the ground with a 
dead jar, like that experienced by a man walking on a wooden 
leg. This jar will not be transmitted through the axis of the 
leg, pasterns and foot bone, as would be the case if the foot were 



LAMENESS AND DISEASES, ETC 



173 



on its proper angle, but up into the 
back tendons, thus causing their 
overtaxation. 

If the hoof is pared in accord- 
ance with the indications given 
(see Fig. 68), it will stand upon 
its proper angle. All dished feet 
are thin at the point of the frog, 
where great care must be taken in 
dressing the foot to leave sufficient 
sole, and in shoeing observe the 
necessity of keeping pressure off' 
from front part of foot. 



Wheeled Foot.— Fig. 69, on 




Fig. 68. 



VIEW OF DISHED FRONT 
FOOT. 



A, A, Dotted line to which 
surplus growth of wall should 
be removed. B, Dotted line to 
which surplus growth of wall 
at toe should be reruoved. 



the following page, is what is termed 
a wheeled hind foot, having low 
heels and high, deep toe, the reverse 
of the defect in Fig. 68. The un- 
natural growth is due to mismanagement of the foot. The 
weight which should pass through the axis of the leg drops 
back of the heel, bearing upon the back tendons and greatlj 
overtaxing them. 

When the foot, in this case, is lifted over the toe, the 
weight, which bears upon the arch of the coffin-bone, raises 
the point of it by the overgrowth of the toe, and draws the cof- 
fin-bone back from the front part of the foot, thus allowing the 
front wall to thicken up as seen in the figure. 

Common sense declares against permitting a foot to re- 
main in this condition, when it can be placed upon its natural 
base. 

A reference to Fig. 69 shows where the foot ought to be 
pared in order to bring the toe to the ground, and allow the 
foot to fall more directly under the leg. This will relieve the 



174 



SCIENTIFIC HORSESHOEING. 




Fig. 69. wheeled hind foot, 
showing long toe and low heel. 



back tendon from overtaxation and 
assist nature in bringing the foot 
upon its natural angles. Pare the 
base of the hoof as shown to dotted 
line, H. File or rasp the front wall 
to dotted line, B. After the foot is 
dressed, apply shoe (Fig. 115) with 
heels extended well back of foot, 
and their height varjnng with the 
emergencies. If the shoe is proper- 
erly adjusted, the best results may 
be expected. 



B, H, Lines to which surplus 
growth should be removed at 
front of foot and from toe to heel. 
A, Unnatural thickness of wall 
in front. 



Defective Ankle Joints or 
Knuckling. — The catalogue of dis- 
eases, defects and deformities in the 
feet of horses has by this time, the 
reader will perceive, grown to a considerable length. In tracing 
them to their small beginnings, we find a striking instance of 
the serious results springing from the " un- ' 

considered trifles " of shoeing. The weak- 
ness peculiar to some horses in their hind 
ankle joints, next suggests itself. This 
troublesome afiection, in many cases, arises 
from the overtaxation of the fetlock during 
colthood, and, again, from hoofs or shoes 
having high toes and heels, or from heredi- 
tary influences. This defect is found to be 
'more prevalent among speedy horses having 
long pasterns than those of any other kind. 
Short upright pasterns in conjunction with Fig. 70. defective an- 
high heels and short toes ; also improper ^^^ joint. 

shoeing— allowing the toes to grow too long ^ ^' ^' ^^"/ 1° '''}]'''^' 
o o o o ])ase of hoof should be 

and low heels — will render speed horses reduced. 




LAMENESS AND DISEASES, ETC. 



175 



liable to this troublesome ailment. Hard pulling will also de- 
velop it and no horses are exempt from it where they are in a 
position to overtax the muscles and ligaments of the pastern 
and fetlock joints. Certain conformations of the foot or ankle 
region, together with improper modes of shoeing, as indicated, 
are always classed with the predisposing causes of this defec- 
tion. The weakness is generally manifested when the horse is 
traveling at a slow gait and renders him less sure footed, though 
not always attended by lameness. When driven on the level 
the upper pastern occasionally bulges forward, and going down 
hill the horse knuckles at every step, but the driver will observe 
that when going up hill the horse never knuckles. I call par- 
ticular attention to these 
points, as the style of shoe 
proposed for the relief of 
knuckling is on the order 
of up-hill movement. 

It will most generally 
be found that unevenly- 
grown and unbalanced 
feet are present in condi- 
tions where knuckling ex- 
ists, and in preparing the 
foot for the reception of 
the shoe, the surplus 
growth should be removed Fig. 71. hind foot shoe to prevent and 
as shown in Fig. 70, and ^^^^ knuckling. 

, , ^ , 1 11 1 -L 1 "^^^ straight bar indicates the shape of shoe 

the foot leveled and bal- g.en from the side. A, Point from which 
anced as per Fig. .23. In shoe should be tapered to toe and heel. 

. 1 • ^.u 4. •^^ V ^' ^' Sole-bearing line. C, C, C, Ground 

this way the toe will be jj^^ > » v^j 

foreshortened, the heels 

lowered, the ground tread lengthened, strong frog pressure ob- 
tained, and the fetlock or weak joints thus be made to rest more 
easily in a normal position. Fig. 71 is the shoe recommended 




176 



SCIENTIFIC HORSESHOEIXG. 



for the cure of this disease, and may be easily made. A, A, on 
face indicates a point from the toe about one-third of its length 
(or two-thirds from the heels), from which the ground surface 

of the shoe is to be drawn forward to 
toe at B, and back to heels at C, C, 
leaving the high point at A, as shown 
in side bar — usually three-eighths of an 
inch, to vary with the extent of 
knuckling. The shoe should be made 
of steel, quite thin and light, that the 
horse may have his foot as near the 
ground as possible, as well as to receive 
the benefit of strong frog pressure. 
The effect of a shoe with such a ground- 
bearing surface will be to place the 
horse upon an incline, as though as- 
cending a hill, and, when in a stand- 
ing position, the upper pastern will 
keep its place in its articulation with 
the fetlock joint, and when in motion, 
the foot will be able to slide over with- 
out straining the parts affected. 

Knee Sprung. — Many indefinite 
causes have been assigned by various 
writers as the originating source of the 
condition known as "knee sprung;" 
but, it generally appears as if the liga- 
ments and bandages of the knee had 

become strained and enlarged, in which 
Fig. 72. position of the , .1 /» , j i i • 

LEG WHEN KNEE SPRUNG. ^Iso thc frout aud back sinews may 

A, A, Angle of this foot 45 become involved by overexertion of 

degrees. B, B, Line to which ^^^^g^ parts, when the bones of the 
hoof should be reduced to its 

normal basis. knee-joint bemg no longer properly 




LAMENESS AND DISEASES, ETC. 177 

retained in their places, become bulged or sprung forward. 
(Compare Fig. 72 with perfect knee of skeleton, Fig. 2.) 

In many cases the formation of the animal, such as undue 
length of limb from the knee to fetlock, is a natural predisposi- 
tion to weakness at knee ; also, abnormal presentation at time 
of foaling where knees are doubled under the body, may produce 
a similar tendency. 

Young horses subjected to an excess of hard pulling before 
they are seasoned or matured, are most liable to injure their 
knees in this manner. Care should therefore be taken in work- 
ing them that their limbs are not overtasked while under the 
age of seven years. 

Horses employed in constant " up-hill "' work, where the 
stress upon the knee is continued and severe, or in sufiering 
them to stand in stalls where the slope is considerable and the 
floor hard, necessitating exertion in the muscles of the leg, and 
keeping the ligaments constantly in a tense state, will expose 
them to a deformity in their knees, by their leaning or bowing 
out in consequence of the ligaments and tendons becoming 
weakened. When the proper angle of the foot is destroyed, as 
is most usually produced by improper shoeing, such as having 
high toes and low heels, causing the lower pastern to bear down 
upon the navicular bone, which in turn presses back against the 
flexor perforans, will produce an over distension of the muscles ; 
and similarly, sore or bruised heels will cause a constant leaning 
forward on the knees to relieve the pressure on other parts, and 
thus produce this defect ; or, should the foot even be properly 
pared, and the shoe then applied be thick at the toe — the heels 
of the hoof being low — the effect of always ascending would be 
the same, and result in the malformation of which we treat ; or, 
if the shoe is too short — indeed, any mode of shoeing that will 
unbalance the foot, may cause the knees to spring forward. 

When the disease becomes chronic, and the ligaments and 
tendons so much relaxed as to be no longer able to respond to 



178 SCIENTIFIC HOKSESHOEING. 

the treatment, a radical cure may be impossible ; but, if taken 
in time, and the foot properly dressed and shod, the disease can 
be cured. 

In dressing the foot for this disease, pare it level and lower 
it to its proper angle, bearing in mind the directions given in 
Chapter IV. 

The style of shoe which I have found to be best adapted 
for the relief of sore tendons and knee spring, are the scoop-toe 
rolling motion. Fig. 126, rolling-motion shoe, Fig. 125, and four- 
calkin shoe. Fig. 101 ; having the shoe adapted to extend as far 
back at the heels as the safety of the foot may seem to require. 
This extension and elevation of the heels usually afibrds speedy 
relief. Either of these patterns, by shortening the ground sur- 
face at the toe and strengthening the knee when the horse is 
moving forward, will relieve the strain and enable him the bet- 
ter to pass his feet over uneven ground surface, which is some- 
times the cause of twisting and straining the already injured 
parts. Another means of furthering a cure is to feed the horse 
from the ground. This will have the effect of throwing the ani- 
mal's weight more directly over his limbs, and thus assist nature, 
in a manner, to retrench the enlargement in the knee bandages. 

Curb. — This consists of an inflammation and swelling of 
the posterior portion of the tendon passing over the calcis, or 
hock bone (p. 36, Fig. 2-39). This is often accompanied with 
considerable heat, pain and lameness. The cause is an accident 
to ligaments at and around the hock, and is the result of hard 
pulling, prancing or leaping, or galloping over uneven ground 
surfaces, etc. The peculiar conformation of some horses ren- 
ders them more likely to be attended by curbs than others ; but 
as it is ahvays the result of over-taxation, and does not admit 
of much labor in the affected part, it should be remedied as 
soon as possible. Fig. 73 shows an extreme case of curb, such 
as may come from the hind feet and legs standing too far under 



LAMEJfESS AND DISEASES, ETC. 



179 




Fig. 73. hind leg, showing cure. 








Fig. 74. leg with cukb ban- 
dages AND FOOT SHOD. 



the body (see p. 200, Fig. 94), the result of a bent or cycle hind 
leg formation. In these cases use four calkin shoe (p. 213, Fig. 
101). The heel calkins should stand higer than the toe cal- 
kins, thus placing the foot further back, and the changed posi- 
tion, together with th^ elevated heel, will support the leg and 
relieve the strain upon the affected weak joint. Bathe the 
curb frequently in warm water, almost hot, and bandage in four 
or five thicknesses (Fig. 74). After the inflammation has sub- 
sided, apply liniment described in Recipe 3, page 294, for a 



180 SCIENTIFIC HORSESHOEING. 

week or more. If any callous remains, paint the surface witli 
iodine until it disappears. 

Bone Spavin. — This disease takes its name from an en- 
largement of the inner side of the hock, creating a bony ex- 
crescence about the hock joint and resulting oftentimes in 
lameness. It can not be treated with uniform success, for it 
often proves very obstinate and not infrequently incurable. 

I would invariably recommend that the affected horse, after 
being shod, be placed under a most skillful and experienced 
veterinary surgeon. In many instances, special shoeing alone 
will relieve the trouble. The shoe I have found to be the most 
satisfactory and disposed to give ease and comfort is the four- 
calked hind-foot shoe (p. 249, Fig. 145). It is obvious there 
can not be two cases of spavin similar. A four-calked hind- 
foot shoe, therefore, designed for any one case, will not be 
•effective in another. Every case must have its own diagnosis, 
and thereupon the paring of the foot and the making and set- 
ting of the shoe must be determined, bearing in mind always 
the balancing of the foot. But, as I say above, the shoe most 
satisfactory all around, to give ease and comfort, is the four- 
calked hind-foot shoe, as above described, with the toe and heel 
calkins placed to suit the case in hand. I very often have found 
it advisable to place the inside toe calkin back froni the center 
of toe of shoe fully three-quarters to an inch farther than the 
outside toe calkin, making the inside toe calkin one-quarter of 
an inch lower and the outside toe calkin one-quarter of an inch 
higher. Bevel the front toe calkins as shown in diagram above 
mentioned, so as to allow the toe to roll over more easily in the 
forward movement. Having the outside heel and toe calkins 
higher than the inside heel and toe calkins will cause the weight 
to fall upon the outside of the hock joint, and in many cases 
the result will be surprising. 



LAMENESS AND DISEASES, ETC. 181 

Bog Spavin. — Is a dropsical condition of the joint, which 
becomes so either from a loss of power in the absorbent vessels, 
or an increased action of the sacs which secrete the joint oil. 
Perhaps both these causes may concur in producing the disease, 
the more remote cause of which is hard work — that is, too great 
•or too long continued action of the joint. 

The bog spavin does not so often occasion lameness as the 
other, except when a horse is worked hard, which generally 
causes a temporary lameness, removable by rest ; but it does 
not always admit of a radical cure, for though blistering is of 
likely service, the trouble generally returns with any consider- 
able exertion. Much may be done, however, to assist the horse 
in his movements, by properly balancing the foot and suitably 
adjusting the four-calked hind-foot shoe above described, shown 
in Fig. 145, page 249. 

Canker. — This is a local disease most frequently arising 
from the thrush, and attacking the front feet. It consists at 
first of an ulcerous sore in cleft of frog, when the inflammation 
of the parts is severe and they are quite tender — often making 
the horse quite lame. The parts afi:ected become very soft and 
rotten, with a discharge of purulent matter. By early attention 
and proper treatment the disease is easily cured, but if it con- 
tinues its ravages it not infrequently destroys the horny frog 
and often extends to the sensitive sole and other parts of the 
foot. The simplest treatment I have found to be the quickest 
and the best : First, dress the foot, as per Fig. 23, then take 
three or four old rasps, sharpen one end of each and heat to a 
white heat, and while in that state apply to cankered part of 
frog, holding the iron at an angle of about 45 degrees, and giv- 
ing it a quick downward stroke along the side of frog from 
upper edge down and forward, and continuing with the other 
heated irons until bottom of soreness is reached and burnt away. 



182 SCIENTIFIC HORSESHOEING. 

Sometimes this disease attacks the inner and outer quarters, and 
I have operated on chronic cases where excrescences had been 
thrown up over the diseased parts like finger stumps, standing 
out from one-fourth to three-fourths inches, and by this burning 
process have permanently cured them. Give the horse a hot 
water foot bath for three hours after burning, and as the open 
state of cells of foot after these operations develops granulations 
very rapidly, this burning and soaking treatment must be kept 
up daily until entirely cured. This treatment is not as severe 
or painful as it appears, as the horse does not jerk away under 
it. Do not poultice the foot, but let it remain open, and keep 
the horse quiet in a dry stall. 

Foot Rot, or Seedy Toe.— This insidious dssease occurs 
sometimes in the toe, and at other times around the inner or 
outer quarters of the foot. It manifests itself by a wasting 
away or drying up of the sensitive laminte, and in slight attacks 
may be easily cured, as the horse seemingly does not at once go 
lame, seemingly requiring some little time to develop into a 
condition of lameness. When it becomes aggravated, however, 
and involves toe and quarters, it is disabling, and requires care- 
ful treatment. I have treated some very stubborn cases, where 
a complete separation of wall and vascular parts had taken 
place, extending almost from ground surface to coronet, and 
where only one and a half to two inches of solid horn re- 
mained. In such cases I removed all the separated parts of the 
wall as far as the disease extended, fairly uncovering the coffin 
bone. I then made a wide webbed, deeply concave shoe to 
cover around toe and quarters ; thence gradually narrowing it 
to the heels, with a good wide bar across to get strong frog 
pressure ; three nail holes to be placed on each side at the heels. 
Next I pulled a clip on each side of the quarters and at front 
toe, making the clips very long, bent up at the same angle as 



LAMENESS AND DISEASES, ETC. 183 

the wall, fitting shoe snug all around, with a light leather riveted 
on to hold the packing of salve (see prescription No. 2), with 
which the bottom of foot should be filled. After the shoe is on, 
take enouo;'h of same salve warmed and build on outside of foot 
about to the thickness of natural hoof, covering the surface to 
at least one inch above coronet ; then encase same within a 
leather strap or boot, fitting neatly around foot from shoe to 
one and a half inch above coronet, slip the leather down inside 
the clips running back under the bulge of the heels, buckle on 
the outside, then gently drive the clips in toward the foot to 
make secure hold against the leather; also have small screw 
holes drilled through the clips, about one half inch above shoe, 
and insert screws to assist in holding the leather firmly to bot- 
tom of foot. After dressing in this way have the foot soaked 
in warm water two hours a day; this, with the salve, will assist 
the formation of new horn and effect a permanent cure. 
Horses that I have treated in this way have not only grown 
new, strong hoofs,, but were at the same time used daily at slow 
work. 

In ordinary cases of seedy toe, level the foot, as per Fig. 
23, then with a probe or sharp instrument remove all pithy, de- 
cayed substances as deep as such extend, being carefal not to 
draw blood. Fit shoe snug to foot, draw up clips on shoe op- 
posite the separated parts to secure a firm brace against the 
weakened wall when weight of horse is resting on it ; have as 
many clips as may be necessary for this purpose. After shoe is 
fitted, remove the lower margin of hoof so that no pressure 
can come upon the separated parts, and have the nails located 
to go in the sound, healthy portions of the horn. Before at- 
taching shoe use the salve treatment as directed for the more 
severe cases. 

The subject of seedy toe would not be complete if the ac- 
companying illustration should be omitted. It is an admir- 



184 



SCIEXTIFiC HORSESIIOEIXG. 




Fig. 75. hoof, with seedy toe — shod. 
A, A, clips on shoe. B, diseased portion. 
C, C, C, sound hoof. 



able side view, showing 
a chronic case of foot 
rot, caused by the ex- 
cessive wasting away of 
the sensitive laminae ou 
that side of the hoof,, 
either by inflammation 
produced by a blow, 
or by undue dry- 
ness of the hoof. The 
disease of the sensitive 
laminae extends as high 
as the sound hoof out- 
lined by the letters C, C, C. 
B indicates the diseased 
portions contiguous to the 
coffin bone, and A, A, 
the necessary clips drawn 
upon the shoe, as spe- 
cifically explained in the 
preceding paragraph. 




Fig. 76. section op hoof affected with 

SEEDY toe. 

A, A, Insensitive laminpe. B, B, Outer 
wall. C, C, Wall separated from laminte. D, 
Bulo;ing or dishing effect of separation. E, 
Wall removed opposite separation. P, F, In- 
sensitive sole. G, Frog. 



LAMENESS AND DISEASES, ETC. 185 

Broken Bars. — This ailment is the result of an over- 
growth of the sole and consequent dryness of the insensitive 
sole. The secretions become dry and hard, the bars unyielding 
and do not spring as the horse rests his weight upon the foot. 
This causes the bars to give way and break, making the 
horse very lame. If not properly treated, this disease often 
assumes a more serious form, difficult to cure, even in time ; 
and if neglected its ravages will soon destroy the usefulness of 
the horse. 

The process of treatment I use is to pare the foot, leaving 
a good, wide outer wall-bearing. Then commence at each side 
of the point of the frog and pare the commissures thin from 
point of frog back to the heels on the inner and outer sides of 
the foot ; then remove all the bars and sole as deep as the soft 
tissues or broken bars, holding the knife at an angle of about 
45 degrees, paring the sole and bars quite thin. The broken 
ends of the bars must be removed with the knife as deeply as 
they extend up into the foot. See that the foot is properly bal- 
anced, and then make and put on a suitable shoe for the work 
the horse has to perform. Place a piece of sole leather first 
under the shoe, covering the bottom of the foot. Rivet the 
sole leather at the heels of the shoe, trimming the leather to fit 
snugly to outside of shoe. !N'ext hold up the foot, and fill the 
bottom with my foot salve (recipe ]Si"o. 2). After the salve has 
become cool, lay a thin layer of white cotton over the bottom 
of the foot, covering the salve, and nail on the shoe. The salve 
will exclude the air from the affected parts, the leather will pro- 
tect the bottom of the foot and hold the salve in its place. 
Finally stand the horse in the soaking tub for at least one or 
two hours in warm water. The effect of the soakins: tub will 
be to open the pores of the wall, and assist nature in casting off 
the inflammation. If the foot should show signs of fever 
around the coronet band, keep the soaking swabs well wet with 
warm water, and see that they are well buckled around the 



186 



SCIENTIFIC HORSESHOEING. 



lower pasterns. Keep the swabs on pastern and around the 
foot as long as there is fever around the coronet band. By fol- 
io wins: the above instructions I have never failed to make a 
permanent cure in feet affected with broken bars. This opera- 
tion must be performed by a competent and skillful farrier. 



Lameness and Diseases of the Foot. — One of the most 
common yet painful disorders of the foot is a separated wall 

at the coronet, which may 
result from any sharp in- 
strument, such as a wire 
fence, the calkin of the 
opposite shoe, or a raised 
clinch of the nail. This 
may result in a fissure or 
crack in the wall, which 
will become permanent as 
the wall grows down, or 
it may cause a wide sepa- 
ration at the coronet. 

The treatment should 
never involve the paring 
away the wall at the coro- 
net, but on the contrary 
at the ground surface of 
the wall immediately be- 
low the injury, as shown 
in Fig. 77. Then place 
the shoe on the foot, having four or more nail holes immediately 
below the ground surface thus pared away, and draw them up 
gradually — first tapping one, then another— till the wall is 
drawn down to the shoe, and the pressure at the coronet is 
relieved. In order to do this effectively, the hoof should be 
softened bv standing in warm water a sufiicient length of time. 




Fig. 77. 



LAMENESS AND DISEASES, ETC. 



187 



If there is any foreign or detached substance in the wound it 
should be cleansed with warm water injected, or the wash num- 
bered 4, on page 294. 

When the wound has been thus thoroughly dressed, then 
apply the salve described in Recipe No. 2, on page 292. Use 
surgeon's cotton, saturated with the heated salve, large enough 
to cover the wound and the skin of the coronet above. Then 
retain the cotton dressing by applying a linen bandage. Then 
apply the iron heated, but not so hot as to burn the bandage, 
and close enough to open the pores. The inflammation will 
pass off through the pores, and the salve will stimulate a 
healthy growth. 

In treating draft horses, have the toe well set back on the 
shoe, provided with a 
side heel calkm on the 
affected side. The 
dressing should be con- 
tinued as prescribed for 
ten days, and the 
wound will slowly yet 
effectually heal. 

There are many in- 
stances in which it is 
not advisable to weak- 
en the foot by tub 
baths, especially where 
the inflammation is 
confined to the coro- 
nar}" band. An admir- 
able substitute is found 
in the felt swab shown 
in Fig. 78, well satu- 
rated in warm water 

and buckled around the 
13 




Fig. 78. healthy foot covered by felt 

SWAB. 

A, Swab buckled around pasteru. 



188 



SCIENTIFIC HOKSESHOEING. 




c, c, 

buckle. 



Fig. 79. felt swab. 
Inside of swab. B, B, Strap and 



lioof, extending above the 
coronet. This is espe- 
cially valuable in hot, dry- 
weather, when the hoof 
loses the moisture from 
the ground and becomes 
brittle and hard. The 
swab can be made of 
thick felt, after the pat- 
tern shown in Fig. 79. 



Abnormal Feet. — Before making an examination of faulty 
limbs, it is proper to present the subject of abnormal feet. The 
foot is in perfect poise when it is level and balanced, the heels 
being of the same height, so that the horse lands upon both 
alike, and springs from a level toe, after he has rolled over quar- 
ters of the same height. The 
heels must not be too high, nor 
the toe too long, nor the hoot 
out of proportion at the sides, 
taking the median line of the 
cleft of the frog as the basis 
of measurement. 

Fig. 80 represents a per- 
fect front foot. It is placed 
properly under the carcass. 
The vertical line, A, A, passes 
down through the axis of the 
cannon bone, and reaches the 
ground at the posterior angle 
of the wall and bar. The line 
!B B intersects the line A A r- on 

tiG. 80. PERFECT FRONT FOOT. 

at the center of the ankle , , 

A, A, Axial line of leg. E, B, 

joint, and passes through the Axial line through coffin bono. 




LAMENESS AND DISEASES, ETC. 



189 



axis of the coffin boue to 
the ground, which indi- 
cates the perfect poise of 
the coffin bone when the 
foot is at rest. This 
is the crucial test of a 
foot both level and bal- 
anced. If the coffin bone 
is out of position with 
reference to the median 
line, B, B, the entire foot 
and limb are out of bal- 
ance. The journals of 
the joints at the ankle 
and knee do not articu- 
late in eqiiilibrio, and the 
tendons and ligaments are 
unduly taxed or relieved, 
dependent upon which 
side of the hoof bears an 
undue strain. The ac- 
companying drawings will illustrate this point. Fig. 81 shows 
the proper position. Fig. 86, with the vertical dropping through 
the apex of hoof, is the reproduction of a perfect coffin bone, 
photographed from nature. The line of pressure was thrown 
back from its correct vertical position by an undue length 
and height of the wall at the toe (see Fig. 82). The reverse 
result is obtained by an excessive height of the heel, as shown 
in Fig. 85. In the one instance a preponderance of the weight 
is thrown upon the flexors, and in the other upon the extensors; 
and ill both cases depriving the bone structure of the limb of 
its primary function of being the organic weight bearer. 

The practical result of thus placing the foot out of line 
with reference to the vertical position of the cannon bone, and 




Fig. 81. coffin bone. 
Lateral view — correct position. 



190 



SCIENTIFIC HORSESHOEING. 




Fig. 82. high toe. 

Defective results shown by lines B, B, 
and D, D. 

passes through the axis of the 
cannon bone reaches the ground 
at an appreciable distance back 
of the heel, thus showing the 
entire foot and limb are thrown 
forward out of their proper posi- 
tion. Moreover, the inclination 
of the pastern joint is enormously 
increased, as shown by the line 
D, D, whereas the proper in- 
clination is shown by the line 
B, B. Now, if the toe is low^- 
ered the distance marked C, C, it 
is apparent that the vertical line 
A, A, will be thrown forward till 
it will pass through the axis of 



the proper inclination of 
the pastern joint, is pre- 
cisely the reverse of what 
is the general conclusion 
of the average horseman. 
For instance, an abnor- 
mal high toe invariably 
pitches the foot and limb 
forward, and an extra 
high heel (Fig. 85) has 
the opposite result. This 
is plainly shown in Fig. 
84. By elevating the toe 
the vertical line that 




Fig. 83. coffin bone, same defect. 



LAMENESS AND DISEASES, ETC. 



191 



the ankle joint and touch the heel at the ground surface, 
foot will then resume its normal 
position, by standing further 
back directly under the limb. 
This investigation is so 
important in its practical re- 
sults that the converse effect 
of excessive height of the 
heels is illustrated in this con- 
nection. Fig. 81 shows this 
defect in dressing the hoof for 
the shoe. The vertical line of 
pressure, A, A, is thrown for- 
ward beyond the axis of the 



The 



/ 




/ 







Fig. 85. coffin bone, same defect. 



Fig. 84. shows defect caused by 
too high heels. 

cannon bone, so that it 
reaches the ground far in 
advance of the angle of the 
heel. The inclination of the 
pastern is made more up- 
right, as shown by the line 
I), D, instead of preserving 
its normal position as indi- 
cated by the line B, B. If 
the heels are lowered the 
distance indicated by the 
line C, C, the foot will be 
changed to the correct po- 
sition indicated by E, E, 
and all the bones, joints, 



192 



SCIENTIFIC HORSESHOEING. 




Fig. 86. coffin bone — vertical in 

LINE. 

Fig. 86 is a photograph of a perfect 
coffin bone, exactly level on sole 
bearing, with the flexor tendon cut 
off even -with B, the navicular bone. 
In a well-balanced foot the vertical 
dropped from the center of the knee 
passes through the center of the apex 
of the coffin bone. 




Fig. 87. coffin bone — vertical out 
OF line. 

Fig. 87 is a photograph of a perfect 
coffin bone, showing the effects of an 
uneven height of quarters. Assum- 
ing width of hoof 4 inches on the 
bottom, distance from base to knee 
20 inches, difference of height in 
quarters of I inch w^ould cause a dis- 
placement of 1^ inches at the knee, 
thus unevenly distributing the weight 
and bearings. 



tendons and ligaments will operate in structural har- 
mony. 

"We are now prepared to advance to the consideration of 
the foot and leg in their proper positions as weight bearers. 

Fig. 88 has been drawn with great care to show the perfect 
front limb and foot. It is correctly placed under the carcass, so 



LAMENESS AND DISEASES, ETC. 



193 




Fig. 88. perfect front 
limb and foot. 




Fig. 89. front limb and foot pointing for- 
ward — high toe. 



that the bone structure from the shoulder to the ground surface 
shall bear its exact proportion of the body, and enable all the 
complex actions of the joints, tendons and ligaments to operate 
with the greatest ease, precision and effect. 

Fig. 89 shows the limb and foot pointing forward, by reason 
of the causes heretofore explained. The invariable result of 
this faulty position is soreness at the point of the frog. To re- 
lieve this painful ailment, the toe should be lowered and the 
wall relieved at the toe, so that no bearing will be placed upon 
the shoe, at least the thickness of a No. 5 horseshoe nail around 
the forward arch of the hoof, and the two toe nails be left out. 
This will ofive almost instant relief. 



194 



SCIENTIi^IC HORSESHOEING. 




The opposite 
result, from an ex- 
cessive height of 
heel, is exempli- 
fied ill Fig. 90. 
The trouble, after 
a careful examina- 
tion, will invaria- 
bly be located in 
the heel and the 
flexor tendon. 
Gentle pressure or 
slight blows will 
indicate the sore 
spot. The hard, 
unyielding sole at 
the point of pain 
should be re- 
moved and the 
inflammation re- 
duced by standing 
the foot and limb in a bath of tepid water. The hospital shoe 
to prevent lameness, if the horse is needed for immediate use, 
can be selected from several approved patterns. It may be 
necessary to cover the sole of the foot for the first shoeing with 
protecting leather. When this is done the best shoe to use is 
the bar, as shown on page 233. As a remedial shoe it can be 
improved by welding on oblong heel calkins, and a long toe 
calkin set back from, the outer web of the shoe in front. If an 
open shoe is preferred, the four-calkin shoe illustrated on page 
213 (Fig. 101) will answer the purpose. In case the lameness 
is severe, the leather covering may be supplied with a packing 
to keep the sole of the foot from becoming hard and dry. In 
that event, my experience has demonstrated the benefit of using 



Fig. 90. front limb and foot, 
pointing backwakd. 



LAMENESS AND DISEASES, ETC. 



195 



fat pickled pork, just out of the brine, cut in long, thin slices 
and pressed well into the sore spot and into the commissures. 
The inflammation will be relieved if the foot, when thus packed, 
is placed in warm water for at least two hours, keeping up the 
temperature as hot as the hand can bear. 

If speed is required while the horse is under treatment, the 
rolling motion shoe (Fig. 125), on page 235, may be used ; or, 
if the action is already too high, the scoop-toe shoe (Fig. 121, 
page 232) can be substituted. 

"When the weight is thrown, by reason of a too high or long 
toe, unduly upon the flexor 
tendon, the result in violent 
action shows itself in either* 
an inflamed flexor tendon 
or a complete let-down. In 
the latter case the usefulness 
of the horse is at an end, 
but in the former, remedial 
treatment, accompanied with 
absolute rest, insures a per- 
fect cure. The tendon bows 
out as shown in Fig. 91. 
The foot should be dressed 
as shown in the illustration, 
and a prepared surgeon's 
bandage, wrung out in witch 
hazel, applied as therein 
shown, after the limb has 
been thoroughly bathed in 
the same preparation. 

After the leg has thus 
been bandaged moderately 
tight, the foot should be 
shod with the four-calkin 





Fig. 91. 



FOOT PROPERLY PARED BEFORE 
BEING SllOn. 



196 



SCIENTIFIC HORSESHOEING. 



shoe as illustrated in Fig. 101, page 213. The heel calkins 
should be higher than the toe calkins. This will throw the 
weight forward upon the cannon bones and relieve the flexor 
tendons till the inflammation subsides. When this is accom- 
plished the witch hazel may be discontinued, and the more 













^£;,C« 




Fig. 92. foot after being bandaged and shod. 



stimulating liniment described on page 294, Recipe 3, can be 
substituted. The liniment can be alternated with the bandage, 
each being applied every other day for ten days, when nature 
will complete the cure. 

It may be useful to describe a proper soaking tub. Such a 
vessel is shown in Fisf. 93. It should be made of hard wood. 



LAMENESS AND DISEASES, ETC. 



197 



about twenty inches iu height and width, with a strong bottom 
sufficient to stand the pressure of the heaviest draught horse. 
"When the treatment is for inflamed tendons, the warm water 
sliould be at least sixteen inches in depth, while five or six 
inches of water is sufficient for the ordinary foot bath. 




Fig. 93. soaking tub. 



198 SCIENTIFIC HORSESHOEING. 



CHAPTER VIII. 
FAULTS OF STRUCTURE AND ACTION. 

REGULATED OR RESTRICTED BY SHOEING. 

A large percentage of the horses have feet or legs which 
are not perfect in conformation, and as a consequence of these 
imperfections they are especially predisposed to certain injuries 
and diseases, as well as to manifest discordance of action — un- 
desirable in itself and unpleasant in its effects according to the 
rapidity of motion in different gaits. Much may be learned 
from careful observation of the action of an evenly-balanced 
horse, as a standard by which to compare and determine that 
which is defective or undesirable in figure and gait, as previously 
indicated in Chapters I and V. 

After examining the gait at which the horse moves, as 
pointed out, carefully study the poise of the legs and feet when 
at rest. The weak points of a horse's conformation can be bet- 
ter discovered while standing than while moving. If he is sound 
he will stand firmly and squarely on his limbs without moving 
them, with legs plump and naturally and equally poised ; or if 
the foot is taken from the ground and the weight taken from it, 
disease may be suspected or at least tenderness, which is the 
precursor of disease. If the horse stands with his feet spread 
apart, or straddles with his hind legs, there is a weakness in the 
loins and the kidneys are disordered. Heavy pulling bends the 
knees. A kicking horse is apt to have scarred legs ; a stumbling 
horse has blemished knees, etc. 

Never buy a horse in iiarness. Unhitch him and take every 
thing off* but his halter and lead him around. If he has a corn 
or is stiff*, or has any other failing, you can see it. Let him go 



FAULTY CONFORMATION AND MOVEMENT. 199 

by himself aways. Back him too. Some horses show their 
weakness or tricks in that way when they don't in any other. 

The vital part of a horse, as far as his value is concerned, is 
the foot, for it is only as an organized locomotive machine that 
the horse is practically the most valuable companion to man. 
Hence without good feet and supple, muscular legs he would be 
of small value, either for work or speed, and the rational care 
of these underlies all else in the equine economy, as any impair- 
ment of them is a matter of extreme gravity and apprehension. 

It is difficult, indeed, to understand how the feet and legs 
of horses stand the wear and tear of work in our great cities, 
where every step of their iron-shod hoofs is upon a hard, un- 
yielding road ; and where, even at rest in their stables, they are, 
in a majority of cases, condemned to stand upon hard floors. 
There is no other creature living — save and excepting the don- 
key or mule — which can long bear the constant battering en- 
tailed by rapid locomotion over a paved surface. But if we 
look at the structure of the horse's foot (Figs. 3 to 15) we see 
how it is that the jar and vibration do not injure them more — 
severe as it is known to be. He is in fact mounted on springs, 
and it is not surprising that the intricate apparatus of locomo- 
tion, with its symmetry of movement and the perfection of its 
details should be admiringly termed " a living machine." 

In the language of another : " His very muscles appear at 
every motion, not soft and flabby, but firm and distinct. His 
veins, like rivulets, run in an infinite number of meanders, 
his limbs are clean, nervous, durable and ready at every call — 
and of all creatures he seems to approach nearest man, both for 
beauty, majesty and sagacity, and his services are likewise the 
most noble and excellent." 

The drawings on the following pages fairly illustrate the dif- 
ference between well-formed and malformed legs, and good and 
faulty standing positions, A comparison of these may enable the 
reader to judge for himself as to what is the best position, and 



200 



SCIENTIFIC HORSESHOEING. 




1. Too straight. 2. Too much bent. 3. Too far behind. 

Fig. 94. faulty positions op hind legs, side view. 

what condition or malformation of the legs causes deviation 
therefrom. It must be borne in mind, however, that experience 
is the best and only teacher in matters of this kind, and that all 
I can attempt within the limits of this branch of my subject^ 
is to set the reader on the right track ; the rest depends upon 
himself. 

The character and position of the hock has much to do with 
the standing position of the rear part of the horse, and the 
numerous faulty positions in which we show this is conclusive 
on this point. The qualities of a good hock are that it should 
be clear, rigid, and well defined, without pufiiness or swelling ; 
the bones should be large and prominent, and viewed from the 
side should appear wide above and below. They should be 
neither straight or overbent. There is also a relative value to 
be attached to hocks malformed or apparently difiiering from 
those laid down. Horses with defective hocks may be good 
for one sort of work and unsuited to another. As for instance. 



FAULTY CONFORMATIOX AND MOVEMENT. 



201 



hocks that will not stand violent exertions may endure for years 
in quiet work ; but these are exceptions, and the rule stands 
good as before. 

Comparing Figs. 1, 2, 3 (page 200), and 4 and 5 (page 201),. 
we recognize some broad distinctions. 

In Fig. 1, the hock is too straight. The legs in this posi- 
tion are subject to spavin and thorough-pin. 

In Fig. 2, the hock is overbent and we may look for curb. 

In- Fig. 3, the leg is too far behind ; and, therefore, does not 
afford the horse sufficient propelling power. 

In Fig. 4, the hocks stand in and the toes stand out ; and 
in Fig. 5, the hocks stand out and the toes stand in. 

In contrast to the foregoing. Figs. 6 and 7 (page 202), rep- 
resent the usually recommended position and what is considered 
the best position ; and in connection herewith the reader is re- 
spectfully referred again to Fig. 1, illustrating the model horse,, 
according to my 50 years' experience and observation. 





4. Hocks too close. 5. Hocks too open. 

Fig. 95. faulty position of hind legs, back view. 



202 



SCIENTIFIC HORSESHOEING. 





6. Position usually recommended. 7. Best position. 

Fig. 96. good position of hind legs. 



Figs. 8, 9, 10 and 11 
represent faulty positions of 
the fore legs. In Fig. 8, 
the elbow stands out and the 
toes stand in, commonly 
called " pigeon toes." In 
Fig. 9, the elbows stand in 
and the toes stand out, caus- 
ing the knees to spring to- 
gether. 

In Fig. 10, on the 
189th page, w^e have a side 
view of what is termed a 

8. "Pigeon-toed." 9. Knock-kneed. "calf leg," in tllis the VCl'ti- 

Fig. 97. FAULTY positions OF fore legs, cal llue from the should- 
er through the axis will pass outside of and at a distance from 




FAULTY CONFORMATIOX AND MOVEMENT. 



203 




10. Calf leg. 11. Feet too close. 

Fig. 98. faulty positions of foke 

LEGS. 



the wings of the heels. This, as 
will be seen upon reference 
thereto, varies much from the 
requirements of a perfect horse. 
Such a position does not denote 
speed, but is not objectionable in 
a draft horse. In Fig. 11, the 
feet stand too closely together on 
the ground ; a position not recom- 
mended in a good horse. 

Finally, in contrast w^ith 
these faulty positions of the fore- 
legs, we show front and side views 
of them, in which the points 
favorable in a perfect horse are all 
noticeable. In the side view, the 
foot is well under the leg, and the axis of the bones of the leg 
are all in line, as indicated 
by the vertical dotted line 
that drops from point of 
shoulder to foot, and the 
foot stands upon its proper 
angle. 

In the front view the 
conditions still remain the 
same. The shoulders are 
prominent, strong and well- 
set back, the fore arm is 
muscular, the fore leg tap- 
ered from elbow to foot, and 
the dotted line, in the ver- 
tical, passes directly through 
the axis of each leg and foot. 
14 





13. Front. 
VIEWS OF PERFECT LEGS. 



204 SCJEXTIFIC HORSESHOEING. 

Care of the Foot from Colthood. — I have often read and 
heard the statements of many authorities to the effect that the 
inside quarters of the horse's foot were weaker than the out- 
side quarters ; but from personal observation and practical 
knowledge, I can safely say that those statements are true only 
in cases of disproportionate build or where the foot has become 
altered or affected by mismanagement or improper shoeing. 
In a perfect, healthful foot, such as is shown in Fig. 24, 
however, the different parts are, without exception, symmetrical. 

And that I might satisfy myself fully in this regard, I have 
for many years visited the fertilizing factories, and with a com- 
pass have closely examined thousands of green specimens after 
they were stripped, and measured them from the center of 
fissures to the union of the inner wall and floor of sole on both 
sides from quarters back to heels, and never found an instance 
of a healthful foot where the difference exceeded the sixteenth 
of an inch. And even when the outer wall has grown more 
luxuriantly upon one side than the other, have I ever found 
any perceptible difference in the inner part of the foot. I have 
also closely examined with calipers the wall upon both quarters 
of feet which never had been shod or tampered with, from the 
center of the back through the quarters to the heels, and never 
found any variation in the thickness. And I have gone still 
further to satisfy myself upon this point. I have repeated vis- 
ited stock farms containing fifty or seventy-five horses and colts, 
whose feet never have been shod or tampered with, and upon 
careful inspection have found that the one-sided growth was due 
to the comparative length of the neck and legs. If the legs 
were short and the neck long, the feet would be straight ; that 
is, if the horse was perfectly built, the legs and neck propor- 
tional, the feet were always straight in front and the growth of 
the foot symmetrical. If the legs were long and the neck short, 
the growth was more luxuriant upon the outside quarters. In 
some instances where the points of the shoulder were wide and 



FAULTY CONFORMATION AND MOVEMENT. 205 

the legs inclined inward, their feet would stand closely together 
and the growth was greater on the inside than on the outside 
quarter ; or vice versa, if the points of the shoulder were nar- 
row, the horse knock-kneed, and the feet apart, the growth 
would be larger on the outer than inner quarter. 

And in fact the variation in growth at quarters may exist to 
a great degree. In all my measurements of the wall from the 
inner floors of the foot to the coronet, I did not find the quar- 
ters vary in thickness one from the other. When the old cus- 
tom existed of making shoes rights and lefts, the inner quar- 
ter was made straighter than the outer, and even up to the 
present day the unskillful farrier, in fitting shoes, files and rasps 
the inner quarter straighter than the outer, to make the hoof 
agree with the shoe. 

After all these examinations, I came to the conclusion that 
there was no right or left to the foot; that what will fit one foot 
will fit its mate. If the horse does not travel squarely on his 
feet, search out the cause and you will find my statements true. 
It is only the skillful farrier who can adjust shoes to correct 
malformations ; the hind feet dift'er in shape from the fore feet ; 
and it requires more good judgment to shoe the front than the 
hind feet, to keep the horse squarely upon his feet. 

In conclusion, I desire to add briefly, in the light of the 
above facts, that in order to have perfect horses, the feet should 
be kept level and straight in colthood. The surplus growth 
should be pared and removed at least four times a year, and 
oftener, if necessary. For, if the feet be left to grow in a faulty 
position up to maturity, we may expect imperfect feet or legs. 
Almost any imperfect foot or leg, if treated in colthood, can be 
straightened ; but if it be neglected to the age of six or seven 
years, it is then too late. A great deal, however, can be done to 
assist nature in restoring the malformation ; and it is not to be 
denied that the usefulness of the horse depends upon good, solid 
feet and lea's. 



206 SCIENTIFIC HORSESHOEING. 

Splay Foot — Knee Hitting. — The term " splay foot " is 
applied to horses that point or spread their toes outward. This 
condition may arise from either one of two causes : first, from a 
fault of conformation, which may be discovered by an examina- 
tion of the limb from the foot to the shoulder. If the toe turns 
out and the upper arm stands in close to the body, the malform- 
ation is in the " splayed " condition of the upper arm or shoulder 
joint. When this is the case there is no remedy to be found in 
any proposed style of shoeing, for the foot can not be pared to 
bring it straight in line with the median plane of the body with- 
out violently wrenching or twisting the jointed process of the 
shoulder and forearm. 

Second, The cause may be referred to mismanagement or 
improper shoeing of the foot. In this case the arm may be 
normal and the fault confined to the ankle and foot — the pastern 
inclined inward and the toe of the foot turned outward. An 
examination of the hoof under these circumstances will reveal 
that the splayed appearance does not exist in the condition of 
the limb, and is therefore not real but is due to an unbalanced 
foot — the outside of the splay foot being too high at the toe. 
This defect can then be remedied and the foot straightened in 
line with the normal axis of the leg by proper attention in 
shoeing. 

Sometimes this deformity is visible only in one limb, while 
its counterpart may be perfectly straight. An instance of this 
kind that came under my observation was the case of the once 
noted trotter, " Jo Bunker." One of his fore limbs curved in- 
ward very noticeably, with the foot splayed or turned outward, 
but the other limb was straight and true to the line of normal 
movement. 

When at rest splay-footed horses always stand with their 
front feet slanting, wide apart, with toes out and heels in ; and 
from this fact it is apparent that the higher the outside toe is, 
the farther and wider will the feet point. The longer, too, that 



FAULTY CONP^ORMATION AND MOVEMENT. 207 

a horse is allowed to remain in this condition, the more difficult 
it will be to remedy it, but much may be done in most cases to 
bring the feet to a correct bearing by timely methods of shoe- 
ing. Splay-footed horses are usually liable to strike or cut their 
knees, hence, in undertaking to shoe them for the prevention of 
this trouble, first examine the position of both fore and hind 
limbs as they stand on a level floor, and note how they are dis • 
posed. Every splay-footed, knee-hitting horse places his front 
feet with the outside margin of the toe first in contact with the 
ground, with a twist to the inside heel as it drops. The outside 
toe being the high point of the foot and standing out of the 
reclilinear way of movement, the knee of that limb can not 
swing out far enough to clear the other in passing. The con- 
trolling power of the muscles is exercised at the ground resist- 
ance, and if the foot leaves the ground straight it will be carried 
straight, but if it inclines to wind or dip in or out, the position 
of the foot on the ground will indicate when it is not in line 
with the normal axis of the limb. 

To overcome knee-hitting in splay-footed horses, the direc- 
tions for leveling and balancing the foot, as per Fig. 23, Chapter 
IV, must be observed. If there is a dished-in of the outside 
quarter and toe, rasp or file it to a line from ground to coronet, 
as shown in Figs. 17 and 18. Then, if more length is required 
for the ground surface, let the shoe extend over the front part 
of the hoof to meet the necessities of the case. The more the 
foot winds or twists the greater the projection of shoe must be 
over outside toe. 

Fig. 100, on the following page, represents the pattern of 
shoe designed for extreme cases of knee hitting, and shows ex- 
tension of web over the rim of outside toe to prevent the inward 
dipping of the foot as it leaves the ground, that carries it over 
against the opposite limb in motion. Where the inside base of 
the hoof can not be pared from toe to heel to bring the foot in 
line with normal center of limb, carefully observe if pastern 



208 



SCIENTIFIC HORSESHOEING. 




still inclines inward, and if 
so, it must be made to con- 
form to the right front line 
by building up the inside 
heel with a strip of sole 
leather inserted under the 
shoe, gradually tapering it 
off from the heel to a thin 
edge forward to center of 
toe, and then rivet on the 
leather and affix the shoe. 
On some occasions, as 

Fig. 100. front foot shoe (ground sur- y^-^Q^e a horse cuts but one 
face) for splay-footed and chronic 
KNEE-HITTING HORSES. kucc, it may be found that 

A, Inside branch. B, Outside branch, the foot on the injured limb 
C, Kivet hole, for securing leather slips is out of balance, and not 

when required to straighten the inside ,■, . i . j j.\, \ ■..• 

, , ^ 1 ., t , ^ 1 A ■ V the one that does the hittms;. 
heel to place the foot level and m line o 

with the center of limb. The dotted white In such event the foot of the 

line indicates extension of shoe over out- • .^^,g^ |.^^ ^^^^^ ^^. 

side toe of foot. '' ' * 

properly leveled, may be 

shod with pattern. Fig. 104. The effect of this shoe will be to 

turn or roll the limb out of the way of the other foot by means 

of the outer bevel on the outside toe. Or on removal of the old 

shoe it can be made to answer the same purpose by welding a 

toe calk on the inner side, about one inch from center of toe, 

the calk to be one-fourth inch high by one inch long. 



Forging or Clicking. — The habit of forging or clicking 
peculiar to many horses may arise either from disproportionate 
construction, or, which is most often the case, from improper 
shoeing; and indeed, from my own personal observation, I am 
led to believe that in many cases both causes may prevail at the 
same time. As one example, a colt, pure-gaited, never before 
shod, may be brought to me for shoeing, and I shoe him in ac- 



FAULTY CONFORMATION AND MOVEMENT. 209 

cordance with my best judgment. Upon trial, he may begin to 
forge or click at once, or possibly not until after a lapse of time. 
Upon being brought back to me for a second examination and 
another shoeing, I may be able to detect the fault at once ; pos- 
sibly not, however, until after a third shoeing. It is evident, 
therefore, supposing that I am competent in every way in my 
handicraft, that if that colt continues, as we have above said, to 
forge or click, that we must look for the cause in the animal 
itself. 

Upon examination it will be found that the fourteenth dor- 
sal vertebrae (see skeleton. Fig. 2) is the pivot or axis around 
which the weight is poised, being the center of gravitation. It 
is plain, therefore, that if the symmetry of the horse be affected 
either by disproportionate construction, by acquired faults or by 
wrong shoeing, that his center of gravity is disturbed ; that is, 
he is unbalanced. And such, in a word, is the general cause of 
the fault under discussion. 

The horse may bo heavier in front than behind ; he may be 
too upright in his shoulders ; he may be short in his pasterns. 
His legs may be disproportionately long in comparison with his 
length under the belly. He may have long pasterns and be 
unnaturally long in his sweeps behind, or close gaited behind, 
due to his stifle standing in, his hocks standing out and his 
toes inwardly inclined ; or he may carry his head too high or 
too low. 

Any one or more of these causes may have been present in 
the example above given, and w^ere brought out upon the first 
shoeing. When, therefore, a horse is found to be subject to 
forging or clicking, the first and all-important thing is to deter- 
mine how he is unbalanced and proceed to distribute equally 
around the center of his gravitation the natural and acquired 
weights he must carry. ISTo general rule can be given for this. 
In the cases above mentioned, one must rely upon his own judg- 
ment and experience. I have had occasion many times to de- 



210 SCIENTIFIC HORSESHOEING. 

termine for myself practically the difference in weight of the 
fore and hind feet of horses, and having cut them off to the 
coronet from the same horses and weighed them, have found 
that the fore feet exceeded the weight of the hind feet on the 
average of two and one-fourth to two and three-fourth ounces. 
If now this difference had been a cause of forging, it was ob- 
viously my duty to adjust the difference in weight in the manner 
which I should deem most expedient in restoring the horse to 
his balance. 

To treat successfully the habit of forging or clicking, it is 
necessary that the farrier should know first the gait at which 
clicking occurs, and the proportions and structure, or build, of 
the horse. The feet are then to be examined and the part of 
the shoe struck by clickings marked. A skillful farrier will 
then be able to determme the causes and the remedies for each. 

If the horse hits the heel of the front foot, clip off* the heel 
of that shoe on the angle of the foot on the ground surface. If 
he hits on the inside web at the toe, take the weight out of toe 
of shoe from quarters to toe on both sides, leaving the weight 
from quarters to heel. If he hits on the outer quarter, put the 
drop crease on the outside. If he hits on the inside web of 
shoe, concave the shoe on the ground surface at the point 
touched. If the head is carried low, check it up so as to lighten 
the front part ; if too high, check down with standing martin- 
gales to add weight. If the breast collar is too low on the point 
of shoulders, raise it up. If the propelling power behind is 
too great for the front part, shoe with a five-ounce shoe heavier 
behind than in front. If he forges at a certain gait, drive over 
or under the gait. If the horse be a " dweller " with his front 
feet, put on a double rolling-motion shoe, highest at the quar- 
ters, gradually thinning the shoe from quarters to toe, then from 
quarters to heel. The effect of such a shoe will be to quicken 
his action in front. 

The shoes designed for the hind feet should in all cases pro- 



FAULTY CONFORMATION AND MOVEMENT. 211 

ject well back at the heels, having good, long-heel calkins. 
The driver or farrier should be able to judge of the weight of 
shoes to be used. I have used four-calkin hind shoes in many 
cases with the best of results. 

Speedy Cutting. — This is caused by the horse being un- 
evenly balanced. Having more propelling power behind than 
in front — that is, the front feet not being able to get out of the 
way of the hind legs as they pass, the outside of the front foot 
strikes and wounds the inside of the shin bone in the hind leg, 
frequently causing much pain and soreness. It is termed " speedy 
cutting," from happening while the horse is in rapid action. It 
is an evident fact that all horses with bold, lofty knee action 
are not speedy cutters. Those, however, who travel with a low, 
gliding, forward movement, like Lady Thorne, are called " daisy 
cutters," and are proverbially afflicted with speedy cutting in 
rapid motion. To overcome this defect, it is necessary to equal- 
ize the difierent actions of the parts by quickening that of the 
front and slowing that of the hind. This can only be done in 
shoeing. 

As there are, however, but few trotting horses that can have 
their toes shortened, since it would have a tendency to make 
them double up or shorten their stride, I use for them a double 
rolling-motion flat shoe, gradually thinning the shoe from 
quarters to heel and from quarters to toe, with dropped crease 
on the outer quarters. Such a shoe will allow the front foot to 
land on its heels, roll over the toe more quickly, and get out of 
the way of the hind legs. If the front feet or tendons are sore, 
it would have a tendency to slow the front action of the horse 
in landing, as he fears to hit the ground. In such cases shorten 
the toe of the front foot as much as safety will permit, examine 
the feet as well as the splint bones, for, if soreness is present, 
it will have a tendency to retard the action in front. If the 
horse is a long strider or dweller, apply the scoop-toed, rolling- 



212 SCIENTIFIC HORSESHOEING. 

motion or the plain rolling-motion shoe, which, being rolled in 
front, will assist the horse in getting over the toe of the foot 
quickly, and thus get out of the way of the other parts. In 
dressing the hind feet, lower the heels as much as safety will 
permit, keeping the front part of the .toes at the natural angle, 
so as to have all the ground surface possible. Apply the shoe, 
Fig. 139. By placing long heel calkins at the sides of the heels, 
■or allowing the shoe to extend at least one-half inch longer than 
the heel of the foot, the down action of the flexor perforans will 
be lessened, and in a relative degree, the quick-up action of the 
foot will also be lessened. The weight of the shoes to be worn 
must be determined accurately by the driver or proprietor. 
I have often shod this class of trotting horses with front 
shoes weighing eleven ounces, and with hind shoes weighing 
iifteen ounces, before I could get them balanced and square in 
their gait. 

Running horses are more liable to obtain speedy cuts than 
trotting horses ; this is occasioned principally by the carrying 
of weight upon their backs, the weight being placed more di- 
rectly on their front legs than on their hind ones. In plating 
Tunning horses to overcome this difficulty, level and straighten 
the front feet, having the heels and frog of an even bearing 
when the feet are placed on the ground ; shoe with thin three- 
quarter tips, beveling the outside of the plate from the ground 
to the sole-bearing surface, so as to obviate the possibility of 
the leg being cut by the shoe in passing. The punishment of 
speedy cutting is oftentimes so severe that the race is lost by the 
horse being unable to withstand it without his speed being re- 
tarded more or less. 

Ankle, Shin and Knee Cutting. — In ankle or shin cutting, 
it will generally be observed that the ankles are tilted inward. 
Cutting often depends weakness or leg weariness, and is liable 
to happen to horses when driven long distances or when they 



FAULTY COXFORMATIOX AXD JVIOVEMENT. 



213 



are carrying heavy shoes. Contraction and also soreness in the 
splint bones will cause a horse to cut, which almost always is the 
result of improper shoeing and bad management of the feet. 
All can be stopped by properly leveling and balancing the foot, 
and the appliance of a suitable shoe. When the position of the 
foot is faulty, it must be ob- 
vious that the remedy con- 
sists in altering its improper 
position and straightening 
it, as much as can be accu- 
rately done, according to 
the instructions given with 
Fig. 23, Chap. IV. 

When the toe is the 
part which inflicts the wound 
use a square-toed shoe like 
ITo, 147, shown in case of 
shoes, page 286. This will 
let the foot break over the 
toe square, and in straight 
^oing or close-gaited horses, 
the foot will generally pass 
the knee without hittins:. 




Fig. 101. FRONT foot fouh calkin shoe, 

TO BE USED FOR THE RELIEF OF SORENESS 
IN THE FLEXOR PERFORANS, OR CASES OF 
QUARTER CRACK, WHERE TOE AND HEEL 
CALKINS ARE REQUIRED, AS WELL AS FOR 
SORENESS AT THE TOE AND FOR SPLIT FOOT 
IN FRONT. 



Sprains of the Ten- 



To be beveled from A, A, to B ; also 
from C, C, to wall-bearing surface at heel. 
A, A, Front toe calks to be beveled off on 
dons. — As its name implies, ground surface to front of toe at B. 

this complaint is an injury C' ^' ^^^^ '^^^^ ^°,b/^ beveled from 

'■ o ^ ground surface to wall-bearing surface. 

to the back sinew, from the 

effects of overtaxation. Work-horses are liable to become so 

affected, though it occurs more frequently in the running and 

trotting horses, by reason of their immense strides, the force of 

which has a tendency — when prolonged to a certain extent — 

to cause the tendons to become swollen and inflamed. 

For horses suffering with sore tendons, the four-calkin roll- 



214 SCIENTIFIC HOKSESHOEING. 

ing motion shoe, illustrated on the preceding page, will be found 
a successful remedy. 

The shoe should extend well back at the heels, the calkins 
beins: at least one-half inch hi2:her at the heels than at the sides 
of the toe, where it should be well beveled on the ground sur- 
face, in order that the horse may be enabled to " get over " the 
toe of his foot with but little strain on the flexor perforans. 

I have also found the scoop-toed rolling-motion shoe very 
successful in the cases of trotting and running horses. The feet 
should always be well leveled and straightened, and the toes 
shortened as much as safety will permit. A preliminary appli- 
cation of warm-water bandages may be found beneficial. 

Elbow and Arm Cutting. — When a horse has too much 
freedom in the action of the knee of his fore leg, which causes 
it to bend under him, when lifted, in such a manner as to strike 
and bruise the limb, it is called elbow or arm cutting. To over- 
come this difficulty, the heel of the foot should be pared as low 
as it can be safely done. The toe, on the contrary, should be 
left long. The shoe should be light, for the lighter the shoe the 
less liability there is of the elbow or arm being cut. The web 
of the shoe should be narrow, especially from the quarters to 
the toe. The shoe should be well concaved on its ground sur- 
face, from the heel to the toe, particularly so in the case of 
horses who cut or hit the arm or elbow with the heel. (It may 
here be observed that the greater number of horses cut their 
elbows with the toe.) 

Adjustable Toe Weight. — The devices next shown in Figs. 
102 and 103, for balancing the action of horses has many features 
which will recommend it to attention. I have used it for many 
years, and it has proven to give satisfaction in all cases. The 
following is the method of adjusting it to the foot : 



FAULTY COXFORMA.TIOX AND MOVEMENT. 



215 



111 case the horse's 
stride is short, place the 
weight over No. 4, as 
shown in diagram ; by 
so doing, the weight is 
at the extremity of the 
toe and muscle of the 
arm. In case one foot 
is longer in the stride 



than the other, place =^ 



the weight on the short 




Fig. 102. adjustable toe weight. 
A, Ground surface of drop-crease shoe attached 
to foot. 1, 2, 3, 4, Points to which weight is ad- 
justed. 



striding foot over I^o. 
4, and on the long strid- 
ing foot over ISTo. 3. 
Drive the horse, and if the 
stride is not equal place the 
weight on the long striding 
foot over letter 2. Drive 
the horse a few days, and if 
this does not have the de- 
sired efi'ect, and his stride is 
not equal, place a weight on 
the short striding foot at 
No. 4, two or three ounces 
heavier than the other. The 
great success of this weight 
depends on the skillfulness t;^,^ ,^0 ^„„, 

^ rlG. l(Jo. GROUND TREAD OP SHOE SHOWN 

of the driver to properly in Fig. 102 to prevent arm and elbow 

T , ., , V cutting. 

adjust it so as to equalize 

the stride of the horse. A, Toe calk around the curve of shoe 

Another Preat advan- i^ front to be from 1 J in. to | in. high. 

® a, J5, B, B, Bevel around inner nm of 

tage of this weight is that shoe and on outside at heels. C, Spur in 

you can give the horse foot ^'■°''* °^ ^^^^ carrying weight, as shown 
. on side view, Fig. 81. D, D, Inner face 

action or take it away, by of toe weight. 




216 



SCIENTIFIC HORSESHOEING. 



the raising or lowering of 
the weights on the foot. By 
placing both weights over 
ISTo. 1, the weights, being 
placed over the center of the 
foot, will prevent the foot 
from bending or doubling at 
the toe, and will stop the 
worst cases of elbow and 
arm cutting. 

Ankle, Shin and Knee 
Fig. 104. right front foot shoe, to pre- Hitting. — As a rule horses- 

VENT ANKLE, SHIN AND KNEE HITTING. ^ i t • i 

^ „, . . , , 1 1 ^ , , so aliected, hit one lee: or the 

C, Starting point of bevel at center of ' ° 

toe to a thin feather edge at B, then other by striking it with the 
gradually lessening the bevel around the ^^^^^^^^ fo^^ from the point 

of the inside toe to about 




outside rim of shoe to A. 



the heel nail. 




Fig. 105. left hind foot shoe for 

ANKLE hitting. 



A, Inside toe calkin. B, Inside heel 
calkin. 



By beveling ofl' the shoe on the outside rim, 
therefore, as shown in Fig. 104, 
from C to B, at middle of toe, 
to A, at last nail hole, will pre- 
vent any thing like an inward 
dip as the foot leaves the 
ground, and will cause the 
ankle and knee to be carried 
outward from the opposite foot 
and thus avoid becoming 
bruised or cut. 

Fig. 105 shows a hind foot 
shoe intended for extreme 
cases of ankle hitting, where 
the horse hits with the inside 
point of the toe. This occurs 
with horses that stand in the 



FAULTY CONFOKMATIOX AND MOVEMENT. 



217 



faulty position illustrated in Fig. 95, No. 5, having their hocks 
turned outwardly and consequently their toes turned in. In 
this case, a toe-calk should be placed on the inside, at the strik- 
ing point of the foot, and also a side heel calkin. This will 
prevent any thing like an inward dip as the foot leaves the 
ground, and sufficient to carry it beyond the ankle of the oppo- 
site foot. 



Speed Shoes. — This variation from the ordinary bar shoe 
was designed to close up the hind action, where the movement 

was so wide that, at full speed, 
the horse frequently would strike 
his hocks in passing, and more 
frequently tear oif the hind hock 
boots. When shod with this 
shoe, the shoe being on the in- 
side of the wall, this excessive 
straddling was obviated and the 
hocks were at once relieved of 
their boots. The more the foot 
is raised on the inside, the closer 
becomes the hind action. A, 
shows the bar across the frog, 
from heel to toe. B,B, B, shows 
rivet holes, through which to 
fasten the leather padding be- 
tween the shoe and the wall. C, 
indicates the heel calkin, and D the outside section of the wall. 
The shoe may be forged as light as the hind action may require, 
and it makes a neater finish to cut the leather padding to the 
inside and outside margin of the shoe and bar, after it has been 
nailed to the foot. When made and fitted according to these 
instructions, not only will hock interference be avoided, but the. 




Fig. 106. bar shoe — variation for 
correcting wide movement. 

A, Bar across frog. 



218 



SCIENTIFIC HORSESHOEING. 



speed of the horse decidedly increased and his endurance greatly 
extended. 

This shoe has been so beneficial to speed that I have termed 
it the " Record Breaker." 
As the horse increases his 
speed, he changes his 
gait, and as no one style 
of shoe was known which 
would be suitable to all 
gaits, I invented this shoe 
for a low-gaited horse 
such as Nancy Hanks. 
My theory is that the 
thinner the shoe is, the 
longer will be the stride ; 
the lighter the shoe, the 
lighter the footfall. The 
wider the web, the less 




Fig. 107. record breaker — front shoe. 




Fig. ]08. 



record breaker — HIND 

SHOE. 



the shoe sinks in the ground, 
and the less liable the foot is 
to cn}» and slip back as it leaves 
the ground. This shoe is cut 
in grooves straight from toe to 
heel, about three-sixteenths of 
an incb deep. This will pre- 
vent the foot from slipping 
sideways. The grooves cut 
sidewaj's and at right angles 
to the former will prevent the 
foot from slipping backward 
as it leaves the ground. Judg- 
ing from my experience in 
shoeing speed horses, slipping 
sideways is very tiresome, and 



FAULTY COXFORMATIOX AND MOVEMENT. 



219 



therefore in aiFording a horse a firm foothold, as the foot lands 
upon and leaves the ground, he is inspired with great confi- 
dence, he can hold his speed from start to finish more uniformly, 
and he will win many a race which he would have lost when 
wearing the common, old style of flat shoes. 

With this style of hind shoe, it will be imp>ossible for the 
hind foot to slip backward or sideways, as it lands upon or 
leaves the ground. The hind legs are mainly the propelling 
powers of the horse. This shoe, as will be seen, is cut in dia- 
mond shapes on the ground tread. The cuts are to be made 
three-sixteenths of an inch deep. This style of shoe is adapted 
to horses wnth long pasterns. In my experience I have found it 
to be of decided advantage to the horse with long pasterns to 
shoe him behind with a long extension of a shoe backward. 
The shoe then serves as a brace or stay to support the back 
tendons. 

In shoeing a speed horse, we must be governed by the 
length of the pastern, and use such a shoe as will suit and assist 

his gait and footfall. If the 
pastern is long, let the shoe 
extend back of the heel; 
if it is short and upright, 
let the shoe extend just the 
length of the heel. 

This shoe (Fig. 109) is 
designed for a horse with a 
long pastern. In some cases 
small heel calks can be 
turned upon the heels, us 
slipping sideways when he 
lands, or l):ickward wdien 
the foot leaves the ground, 
is very tiresome. The scoop 
A to B, Scoop. commencing at the toe, as 




Fig. 109. record bre.iker — hind shoe, 
with grab toe.. 



15 



220 



SCIENTIFIC HORSESHOEING. 



A, should be gradually thinned down to the inner edge, B, thus 
leaving a sharp catch at the toe. I have used this shoe on 
hard tracks with the best of success ; have known the slipping 
defect, generally confined to the hind feet, to be reduced to a 
minimum, and the sj)eed on a hard track increased from one to 
three seconds. 

The importance of this shoe can not be overstated. Its use 
is to prevent the foot from slipping backward, thus tending to 
strain the tendons as well as to produce the knee-sprung 
troubles. The toe of 
this shoe is gradu- 
ally beveled to a thin 
edge from the outer 
to the inner surface 
of the shoe, and 
when this shoe is 
worn by speed horses 
it prevents the front 
foot from slipping 
backward as it leaves 
the ground. I use 
this stj'le of shoe on 
speed horses for sore 

tendons and the Fig. no. improved grab shoe. A, Ground tread 




knee-sprung defect. 



of shoe. B, B, Tips of leather-heel of toe. 



This shoe can be made as light as the foot requires, as well as 
the leg and the gait of the horse. All horses that are sore in 
the back tendons require elevation at the heels to relieve the 
sore tendon at each footfall. Take thick sole leather and rivet 
on shoe where rivet holes show in shoe, at heels and quarters. 
Then cut the leather out on inside of shoe, thus lightening its 
weight. Afterward gradually remove the leather by commenc- 
ino- to thin it from the heels down to a feather edge at the toe, 
on each side of quarters. By so doing the heels will be ele- 



FAULTY CGNFORMATIOX AND MOVP]ME\T. 



221 



vated and the sore tendons greatly relieved. B, B, shows how- 
leather is to be tapered from heel up to toe ; C, shows the 
leather and ground tread of shoe. The use of this shoe will 
afford the greatest ease and comfort to the horse at each foot- 
fall, when up to speed. The elevation with the leather must be 
governed by circumstances, some inflamed tendons requiring 
more than others. 



/ 



Shoes for Quarter Crack. — The illustration herewith is a 
side view of foot and pasterns, with lower part of cannon bone, 
the foot properly balanced and the bar shoe illustrated in Fig. 
112 nailed to the foot. This style of bar shoe I designed for 

quarter crack where toe 
and heel calkins were re> 
quired. Quarter crack is 
one of the many diseases 
which horses are subject- 
ed to who travel day in 
and out upon artificially 
paved streets and roads. 
The illustration of this 
particular case would not 
do for all cases, of course. 
This style of shoe, how- 
ever, will illustrate this 
case, and be a guide to 
any others which may 
come to the attention of 
the reader. 

In this instance, the 
reader will turn his at- 
tention first to the Fig. 
Ill, showing side view 
of the shoe shown on the 





SHOE FOR QUARTER CRACK, SET ON 
WELL-BALANCED FOOT. 



A, Toe calk, 
break the jar. 



B, B, Heel calkins set to 



22J 



SCIENTIFIC HORSESHOEING. 




foot. Second illustration 
shows the shoe, ground 
tread and toe calkin, and 
third shows the wall bearing 
and where shoe is beveled 
to avoid the quarter crack. 

The rule of making the 
shoe is to bevel it from wall 
bearing wherever it comes 
opposite a quarter crack on 
the foot. This will prevent 
dirt from wedging in be- 



tween the shoe and the wall 

of the foot, and at each foot- Fig. 112. 

fall the dirt will jar out. 

A clip is required for draft horses. 

In paring the foot, bear in mind always to pare the outer 

edges of the quarter crack as deep as the sensitive laminfe. 

After paring the foot and fitting the shoe, rivet a piece of sole 

leather to the shoe, covering 
bottom of the foot, at three 
rivet holes, as in illustration 
(Fig. 113). Before nailing 
the shoe to the foot, take 
fat pickled pork, fill the bot- 
tom of foot with long slices 
thereof, pressing them well 
into the commissures with 
the hand. After nailing the 
shoe to the foot, take Recipe 
No. 2 made warm ; dip cot- 
ton into the salve, cover the 
aflected parts well with the 
Fig. 113. A, Clip on point of shoe. salve and cotton. Then 




i^AULTY CONFORMATION AND MOVEMENT. 



223 



bandage the cotton to the foot and stand the feet in the soak- 
ing tub, with warm water six to eight inches deep, for one or 
two hours. After taking the horse out of the soaking tub, bet- 
ter apply the soaking swabs around the pastern, kept wet with 
warm water, for a few days. I have cured the worst cases with 
this shoe and treatment, and worked the horse daily. 

Fig. 114 shows a special shoe for quarter crack for running 

horses. I have been very 
successful with this, nsing 
it upon running horses 
where, in their early 
stages, they can not run 
up to their full speed, 
sliod with bar shoes. The 
shoe is very easily made, 
as can be noted in the il- 
lustration, by bending, as 
at C. In paring the foot, 
the wall or horn should 
be removed so as to allow 
the shoe to set snugly up 
to the foot, as shown in 
the diagram. Placing 
nails in the heel of shoe 
will hold the wall of 
the foot permanently as 
the horse springs over 
the toe in his forward 
movement. Fig. 114, open shoes; A, A, ground tread; B, B, 
wall bearing; C, set-off in shoe. Side view of foot shows: A, 
quarter crack; B, shoe set off in front of the ground tread 
of quarter crack. A full front view of this shoe is given in the 
illustration in case of shoes, page 284, No. 103. After placing 
this shoe upon the foot, use my foot salve, white cotton being 




Fig. 114. shoe for quarter crack. 
A, Quarter crack. B, Shoe. 



224 



SCIEXTIFIC HORSESHOEING. 



saturated with it, large enough, to cover aiFected parts, warm 
and apply the salve. Place also a good linen, bandage around 
the coronet and under the heels, so as to hold the dressing 
firmly to the aiiected parts, and heat in well with a warm iron. 
Stand the foot in the soaking tub filled with warm water six 
inches deep, for one or two hours, and afterward use the soak- 
ing swabs around the pasterns and foot. Keep well wet with 
warm water for a few days, or until the soreness disappears. 

This shoe is designed for quarter crack, where neither toe 
nor heel calkins are required. This treatment I have used with 
unvarying success in the case of speed horses that have been 
driven over hard tracks 
and roads. If horses' 
feet are kept properly 
balanced, the wall pliable 
and fiexible, and the hoof 
shod with shoes suited to 
the work required, there 
will be little danger of 
quarter crack. .The treat- 
ment is as follows : In 
old, long-standing cases, 
one side of the wall will 
overlap the other. In 
such instance, remove all 
the fractured and loose 
wall as deep as the podo- 
phyllous tissues. Be care- 
ful not to draw blood. 
The shoe is set down to 
half its thickness in front 
of the crack, being grad- 
ally drawn thinner as the 
lieel is approached. Then 




Fig. 115. side view of hoop prepared, 
balanced, and shod for quarter crack, 
where no toe nor heel calkins are 
required. 

A, A, AVall removed under crack. B, 
Quarter crack. 



FAULTY CONFORMATION^ AND MOVEMENT. 



225 



punch two small nail holes 
in heel of shoe, as shown in 
diagram. The shoe should 
lie easily on the wall back 
of the quarter crack. After 
the foot has been shod apply 
the foot salve and remedy 
as heretofore prescribed. 
Cover the quarter crack and 
the coronet with the white 
cotton thoroughly saturated 
with the salve. Apply the 
linen bandage well around 
the whole foot, so as to hold 
the dressing to the wounded 
parts. Warm the salve in 

well with the iron, made warm for this purpose. Observe 

these instructions and a permanent cure can be effected. 

Fig. 116 is a front view of a shoe which I have used in 

a great many cases of quarter crack with most satisfactory 

results. 




Fig. 116. shoe for quarter crack. 
A, Set-off, one-half thickness. 



Rate of Speed, of Trotters and. Pacers. — I give here a 
table showing the distance covered per second by a horse when 
going at speeds varying from a 2:00 to a 2:30 gait. The table 
given is believed to be a substantially correct compilation of the 
figures. 

It will be noticed that in the distance covered by the horse 
when going at a rate of speed of from 2:30 to 2:20 there is an 
approximate increase of three inches per second for each addi- 
tional second's lowering of the speed rate, while in the speed 
rate between 2:10 and 2:00 the increase amounts to four and 
one-tenth inches per second. A horse going a mile in two 
minutes would distance Martha Wilkes, Palo Alto and Maud S., 



226 



SCIENTIFIC HORSESHOEING. 



Rate op Speed. 



2:30 
2:25 
2:24 
2:23 
2:22 
2:21 
2:20 
2:19 
2:18 
2:17 
2:16 



Distance 
PER Second. 



Feet. 



35 
36 
36 
36 
37 
37 
37 
38 
38 
38 
38 



In. 



2 
5 

8 

11 

2 

5 



Rate op Speed. 



2:15. 
2:14. 
2:13 
2:12 . 

2:10 . 
2:08| 
2:08. 
2:05. 
2:04. 
2:00 . 



Distance 
per Second. 



Feet. 



39 
39 
39 
40 
40 
41 
41 
42 
42 
44 



In. 



and have something to spare, and would leave iSTancy Hanks 
and Mascot, the fleetest of the present day, about seven lengths 
to the rear. Railroad express train, one mile a minute, eighty- 
eight feet a second, is a good comparison. 



SPECIFIC AXD REMEDIAL SHOEING. 227 



CHAPTER IX. 
SPECIFIC AND REMEDIAL SHOEING. 

ITS PURPOSE AND SCOPE DELINEATED. 

The special purposes of shoeing will be considered under 
this head as applying to "■ all sorts and conditions " of feet — 
especially defective and diseased conditions — for which certain 
merits are claimed for many different styles of shoes, in remedy- 
ing or curing the special defects against which they are directed. 
No one need be told that in operating upon feet of this kind, 
the highest discretion of the farrier is called upon, for it is not 
the application of a given style of shoe to the foot in a given 
way, but it is the scientific adaptation of a special kind of shoe, 
varied for special purposes, to suit different conditions of the 
foot, with a view of securing certain beneficial results. Thus 
regarded, this section of my subject becomes withal one of the 
most interesting phases of all the branches of shoeing. 

There are a large number of artificers who make horseshoe- 
ing a profession, who offer convincing testimony of having 
mastered the principles of their art (as proved by their skill 
in this department of it), that I should doubtless have made an 
exception in their favor in my strictures on the careless bun- 
glers who belittle the importance of the profession and unmake 
the well-deserved reputations of the more finished artists in the 
business. 



228 SCIENTIFIC HORSESHOEING. 

In the development of that '• paragon of horseflesh " — the 
trotter — the matter of shoeing for si>eciiic purposes has received 
more attention at the hands of all classes of men, and has made 
more progress and achieved greater triumphs in American than 
in any other land. 

This is a department of the farrier's art that ranks with 
the best and most ingenious of other mechanical arts, and is 
justly entitled to the highest praise that can be bestowed 
upon it. 

I have devised many different styles of shoes admirably ef- 
fective for leveling and perfecting the action and the gait of 
horses, as well as for removing the cause and thereby healing 
the effect of various foot ailments, but as many of them are 
applicable — in a large measure — to horses used solely for speed 
purposes, any attempt at a complete classification at this time is 
precluded by the limits assigned for this work. I will, therefore, 
confine myself to a selection of such patterns as may be re- 
garded the most useful for the purpose in view, though the next 
succeeding chapter will contain an assembly of one hundred 
and seventy other forms of shoes, all enumerated and described 
for convenient reference. 

When rightly made- and applied as directed, any of these 
shoes will prove potent auxiliaries in assisting to relieve the 
faults or troubles for which they are especially designed or in- 
tended, as explained in each instance — and this applies to the 
hisher breeds of horses, as well as to others whose lot is cast in 
the humbler, if more useful walks of life. 

Any correspondence or inquiries addressed to me relative 
to the matters in question, will receive prompt and careful at- 
tention at my hands. 



SPECIFIC AXD REMEDIAL SHOEING. 



229 




Pig. 117. ORIGINAL CENTENNIAL SHOE, 
DESIGNED BY S. T. HARRIS. 



Centennial Shoe, No. 1. — 
Fig. 117, is one of the many 
I exhibited at the Centennial 
Exposition at Philadelphia in 
1876. It was designed by Mr. 
S. T. Harris, of Cincinnati. 
The shoe derives its name from 
the year in which it was in- 
nted and exhibited, and it 
has been in use a long time, 
with very gratifying success. 

It conforms more to the 
shape of the foot than any shoe 
ever used. The wings. A, A, 
bear evenly on the bars of the foot, afibrding the greatest pos- 
sible bearing surface to the heels, and serve to distribute equally 
over the whole ground surface of the foot the concussion sus- 
tained, which, by reason of the position of the heels, is greatest 
at this point. 

After the Centennial shoe has been worn for a few days and 
then removed from the foot, the inclination and position of the 
wings afiord a useful and valuable deduction. The question 
has long been mooted among winters and farriers, what part of 
the foot expands the hoof, whether the wall, the bars, or the 
frog. Eminent authorities have given this active agency in turn 
to each one of the members I have mentioned, but the inclina- 
tion of the wings of a worn Centennial shoe indicates an active 
agency of the bars in co-operating with the other parts of the 
foot that have not heretofore received adequate consideration. 
The wings of the shoe not only fall out in their bearings to the 
extreme points of the bars, but they are careened outwardly, the 
inside branches being higher than the outside branches, thus 
showing by their outward inclination that the bars have an ac- 
tive and constant agency in keeping the foot normally expanded. 



230 



SCIEXTIFIC HORSESHOEIlSrG. 



As a hoof expander, therefore, we derive from the Centennial 
shoe one of its most valuable uses. 

Centennial Shoe, No. 2. 
— Fig. 118. This shoe, also 
exhibited at the Centennial 
Exposition, conforms as closely 
as possible to the natural shape 
of the hoof, and places the 
pressure just where nature de- 
mands. Especially is it bene- 
ficial to the trotting horse that 
requires toe weights to balance 
his actions, because it is heavy 
in front and operates power- 
fully in assisting the extensor 
to lengthen the stride. When karris. 

a shoe of this pattern weighing A, A, Bevel around inner rim of 

shoe on grouu.d surface. B, B, Grooves 




Fig. 118. modified form centennial 
tok-weight shoe, designed by s. t. 



sixteen ounces is lifted bv the 



at heels to obtain bar pressure. 



heel, it seems to weigh at least 

two pounds. The inner rim on ground surface is to be well 
concaved, as shown by letters, A, A, the heels to be swedged 
out with a round, blunt, fullering tool, as shown in B, B, so as 
to get good heel and bar pressure. 

In applying this style of shoe to a horse inclined to mix and 
shift his gait, bear in mind to leave a long toe. Three nails in 
each quarter is sutficient to hold the shoe to the foot. This shoe 
will produce most satisfactory results, if properly applied. 

Centennial Shoe, No. 3. — Fig. 119, on next page, is another 
modified form of the Centennial shoe before described, and with 
the others was exhibited by me at the Centennial Exposition. 
It is more easily made, yet embraces the same principle of bar 
pressure. It can be made from any ordinary flat shoe, the wings 
to be swedged out solidly by means of a blunt, round, fullering 



SPECIFIC AND KEMEUIAL SHOEING. 



231 




tool, until they extend over 
the bars, as shown at A, A, A, 
A. This style of shoe I con- 
sider to be of especial advan- 
tage to recover the wiring-in 
of the crusts at the heels. By 
following the wall close up to 
the sides of the frog, it obtains 
strong bar pressure, and gives 
the frog free access to the 
ground. If the sole of the foot 
evinces a tendency to be flat 
Fig. 119. another modified form and tender, it is quite necessary 

CENTENNIAL SHOE, DESIGNED BY S. T. , i a. -j. i" • • x-l 

to protect it irom miury until 

HARRIS. -"^ O ,/ 

A, A, A, A, Grooves deepening and it becomes strong. The Only 
widening toward sole-bearing surface, ^ay in which this can be done 

is by adding to the web in the shoe. As the sole gradually re- 
news itself and becomes thicker, reduce the width of the shoe. 
In two or three shoeings, the foot will become strong, when the 
narrow-webbed shoe may 
be resorted to. 

Fig. 120. To make shoe, 
take a steel bar 1\ by f 
inches, of twice the length 
from center of the toe to 
either heel — otherwise suf- 
ficiently longto extend the 
required distance round 
the foot. Strike a center 
at a point half the length 
from toe to heel on each 
side. Then with a chisel, 
cut down through the ^'^- ^-^- ^^^«^° ^^«^^« «^« «^«^' ^^ 

REDUCE CONCUSSION AND SOFTEN THE STROKE 

middle of bar each way — of footfall. 




232 



SCIENTIFIC HORSESHOEING. 



stopping at a point to leave material enough where the ends of 
the wings unite with the shoe, then cut ofi' the surplus stock in 
center to leave the wings of the desired length, beginning at a 
distance from each end, equal to the length of the wings de- 
sired, and continue to the required distance from the ends of 
the bars. 

Taper the wings from heels to points and bend the shoe to 
the form of the foot. Make the wings conform to the shape of 
the frog. Then fit the shoe to the foot, springing the wings 
gradually from heels to points and leaving them standing one- 
half inch below face of shoe. I have tested this shoe on horses, 
that were quite sore and lame, the shoe being made of cast steel, 
the bars being sprung down from the heel to their points on the 
ground surface about one-half inch ; this will soften and mellow 
the jar. The shoe, being v/ell tempered, will allow the bars to 
spring with the horse's weight, 
and will be found one of the 
best devices possible to soften 
and relieve the effects of con- 
cussion when the horse is ten- 
der in foot or tendons, as well 
as to quicken the action in 
trotting, leaving the frog free 
and unimpeded to perform its 
important functions of cushion- 
ing the foot and shielding the 
sensitive parts from injury. 

The benefit of this shoe 

can only be obtained on hard Fig. 121. front foot scoop-toe, roll- 
ing MOTION SHOE. 

roads or tracks. 

Fig. 121. This shoe can be ^' ^' Comrn^^^-e^;^^ ^f ^^-P on 
° each side of toe. B to C, Direction of 

readily made. It begins to be scoop from out to in. C, Point where 

gradually thinned on the face ^coop is deepest. D to D. Bevel from 
■^ "^ ground surface to wall-bearing surface 

at A, A, until the centers at on each heel. 




SPECIFIC AND REMEDIAL SHOEING. 



233 




Fig. 122. front foot shoe, known 

AS THE "goldsmith MAID BAR SHOE," 
HEART-SUNKEN AND DROP-CREASED. 




Fig. 123. front foot shoe, to lessen 
knee action, shorten the stride, and 
to prevent forging. 

A, A, Concave on ground surface 
around toe. B, B, B, B, Concave on 
ground surface around quarters. C, C, 
Outer ground surface to be kept flush 
with face of shoe. 



B, C, are reached, when on 
its outer edge, it should be 
not more than two-thirds its 
original thickness, dipping 
deeper inwardly toward C,. 
where it should he quite 
thin. The eflect of this will 
be to lessen the ground sur- 
face of the foot, and quicken 
the action of the fore legs.. 
This shoe will also be found 
beneficial for horses sore in 
the toes and tendons. 

Fig. 122. This shoe is 
applicable for a number of 
diseases of the foot, such as 
weak and bruised heels, 
quarter cracks, etc. It is 
also used extensively among 
trotting horses, the shoes be- 
ing reduced down so light, 
they serve to keep the shoe 
from spreading on the foot, 
when the horse is in violent 
action. By having the bar 
set down below the face of 
the shoe, it serves the same 
purpose as an open shoe. 
This style of shoe is quite 
beneficial for long-striding 
horses, as they land mostly 
on the heels, and by having 
the shoe thinned well back 
at the heel, it will prevent 



234 



SCIEXTIFIC HOUSESliOEIXG. 



the foot from becoming bruised. I believe that an occasional 
change to the open shoe will be beneficial in giving the foot 
more active use of the frog. 

Fig. 123, on the opposite page, illustrates a front foot shoe 
designed to prevent forging, to lessen knee action and shorten 
the stride. 

1. For forging, if the hind foot hits under the toe, clip out 
in the toe as shown in the foregoing diagram. Lessening the 
weight from quarters to the toe will allow the horse to get his 
foot quicker out of the road of the hind foot, thus preventing 
this defect. 

2. If the horse has too mucli knee action and stride, taking 
the weight from toe, as shown opposite, lessens the stride and 
knee action and serves to equalize the gait. 

In either case the shoe is to be gradually thickened from A, 
A, to the heels. By so doing the front foot will be assisted in 
getting out of way of the 
hind foot, and where the hind 
foot hits up under the toe, 
forging will be prevented. 

Fig. 124. Horses that 
paddle do so by reason of 
the faulty position of the 
leg and foot. Paddling con- 
sists in springing from the 
inside toe when the foot 
leaves the ground, causing 
it to swing out from the 
body. The shoe (Fig. 124) 
was designed to assist nature 
in equalizing the weight, 
through the axis of the leg 
and foot, and is shown here 
from the ground side. 




Fig. 124. improved non-paddling 
front foot shoe, designed by s. t. 

HARRIS. 

Bevel outer rim of shoe from inner 
A to a thin edge at outer B, gradually 
diminishing the bevel to outer A, back 
of the quarter. 



SPECIFIC AND REMEDIAL SHOEING. 



235 



To prevent paddling, place as wide a web upon the inside 
branch of shoe as the foot will admit of. The inside branch 
of the shoe to be beveled from the ground surface on the angle 
of the foot from toe to heel. The outside branch is to be made as 
light as possible. Commence to bevel from A to B, to be car- 
ried to B to a thin edge, as shown in diagram. This shoe has 
given uniform satisfaction wherever used as I have directed. 

Fig. 125. I use this shoe 
for knee sprung and sore ten- 
dons. It can be made of any 
thickness or width to suit. In- 
asmuch as elevation gives re- 
Mef to knee sprung and sore 
tendons, thickness at the heels 
nust be judged of according 
to the necessities of the case. 
Select the bar required and 
bend it around center, shape 
both sides of toes and quarters, 
Fig. ] 25. rolling motion shoe no. 1. gradually narrowing the bar 

FOR KNEE SPRUNG AND SORE TENDONS. -i • t' j. r j. ^ 

edgewise irom center oi toe to 

A, A, A, A, Bevel on heel of shoe , i 

from ground surface to wall-bearing. 

B,B, Bevel from inner to outer surface As the bar diminishes in 

of ground-bearing, as shown. _„• i.i •, • • ,i • i 

^ ^' Width it increases m thickness 

toward the heels. Then commence at inner B, gradually bevel- 
ing to outer B, extending as far back as shown in diagram on 
both sides of quarters. As the web at the toe shortens on the 
ground surface, the thickness at the heels gives elevation. 
The beveling from inner to outer web lessens the ground surface 
of the shoe. This shoe, when properly made and adjusted, is 
the best I have ever used for sprung knee and sore tendons. 

Fig. 126. The shoe on the opposite page I use for laminitis, 
quarter crack, split hoof, bruised heels, contracted feet and 
tender-footedness ; and it has always given the best satisfaction. 
16 




236 



SCIENTIFIC HORSESHOEING. 




The shoe is made in this 
way : Take a bar of the re- 
quired width and thickness 
and bend it. Shape both sides 
from toe to heeh Commence 
beveling on outer surface, the 
bevel gradually diminishing at 
the inside web of shoe. Ex- 
tend this operation from toe 
to heel on ground surface. In- 
crease the web of shoe in pro- 
portion as the ground surface 
requires to be shortened. Fig. 12(k rolling motion shoe no. 2, 

^ FOR VARIOUS PURPOSES, AS DESCRIBED. 

The effect of this shoe on rr u i i i n i „^^„„a 

To be beveled all around on ground 

the foot will be to lessen the surface, from inside to outside of web, 
ground surface, breaking the ^^ ^ °'^^- 

jar at each footfall, bringing the foot more under the leg, and al- 
lowing it to roll easily, in the forward movement at point of toe. 

Fig. 127. Although roll- 
ing-motion shoes Nos. 1 and 
2 will prevent tripping and 
stumbling, all horses can 
not travel with ease and 
comfort when wearing a full 
rolling-motion shoe. For 
such cases, therefore, I de- 
signed shoe. Fig. 127. I have 
elsewhere stated that stumb- 
ling will arise from straight 
shoulders, short, upright pas- 
terns, high heels and carry- 
ing the head low. The more 
Fig. 127. front foot shoe, to prevent gtiffngss and soreness there 

STUMBLING AND GIVE GRACEFUL KNEE AC- i . i ,-i 

TioN. is apparent, the higher the 




SPECIFIC AND REMEDIAL SHOEIXG. 237 

foot is to be raised from the ground to prevent tlie toe tripping 
or stumbling. 

To make the shoe, cut a bar of the required width and 
thickness, and shape the shoe from toe to heel, making quarters 
the same as an ordinary shoe. Next, take a round, blunt full- 
ering tool, and scoop out at points A, A, gradually thinning 
from inside web to outside web. After swedging, clip off with 
a chisel the surplus to the circle of the foot; then hot-rasp the 
outer rim of shoe, leaving the ground surface as seen in the 
preceding diagram. 

If Fig. 127 is properly made, and the foot placed on its 
natural angle, the worst cases of tripping and stumbling can be 
prevented. 

If calkins are required for winter use, set the toe calk well 
back from the front of shoe, and weld on side heel calkins. 

This style of shoe can be successfully employed in giving 
the horse graceful knee action, as it will allow the toe to break 
over quickly and an increase of weight will cause the muscles 
of the limbs and shoulders to be brought- more into play in lift- 
ing the feet from the ground. 

Another shoe to accomplish the same result is the four-cal- 
kin shoe, made as described and shown in Fig. 101 ; both shoes 
will give a sprightly down grade style of action. 

To increase hock action, if front shoes weigh 20 ounces 
each, make hind shoes 18 ounces or in that proportion, for in- 
creased or diminished weight. Any ordinary shoe will answer 
the purpose for the hind feet, by having increased weight in shoe 
the reflex action of picking up the foot is increased, which 
causes the hock to bend more and lift the foot higher from 
the ground, and the graceful effect is heightened with increase 
of speed. 

Fig. 128. By shoeing with the style of shoe on the opposite 
page — properly made and applied — the weight being principally 
in the toe, at the extremities of the muscles, the action will be 



238 



SCIENTIFIC HORSESHOEING. 




Fig. 128. front foot shoe, for balancing 
and squaring the action and gait of 
horses, when inclined to rack or pacb 
and shuffle. 



squared and balanced. In 
order that the shoe may 
have the desired efl'ect, 
the quarters must be well 
concaved from the ground 
surface. In proportion^ 
then, as the weight is les- 
sened in the quarters, the 
toe of the shoe will be 
relatively heavier. This 
shoe can be used to quicken 
the horse's action by being 
rolled on the ground sur- 
face. I have used it with 
the most satisfactory re- 
sults. 

Fig. 129. This shoe is intended only for slow work in gait- 
ing horses. If the shoe be made according to the instructions 

following, and head checked 



down with standing martin- 
gale, as described in Chap. Y, 
page 110, balancing the action 
of horses, a pacer that never 
struck a trot will trot at once. 
To make the shoe, select a 
bar of iron one-half inch 
thick, and shape the toe and 
quarters, then with a chisel cut 
from center of quarters, leav- 
ing one-half inch thickness at 
toe. Gradually draw the shoe 
Fig. 129. improved toe-weight shoe, thinner from toe to heel ; cut 
A, A, Insertion for the frog. ^^ j^^ ^ ^^ ^||^^ f^j. ^\-^q fj-Qg. 
B, B, B, B, Concave on ground sur- 
face. 




The inner edges, B, B, B, B, 



SPECIFIC AND REMEDIAL SHOEING. 



239 



are to be made concave on ground surface, and just in propor- 
tion as the quarters and heels are lightened, weight is to be 
added to the toe. A shoe of this pattern will assist the horse 
in the extension of his stride more than any other shoe made 
in the ordinary way and weighing thirty ounces. 

I have never failed to make a pacer trot, if shod in this 
manner. 

Fig. 130. I use this shoe 
for founder, laminitis, ring- 
bone, and anchylosis. 

For founder, the bottom of 
the foot should be pared quite 
thin ; and after the shoes are 
nailed on, stand the horse in 
soaking-tubs filled with warm 
water, for half a day, then ap- 
ply hot poultices to the bottom 
of the feet. 

For laminitis, bear in mind 

Fig. 130. front foot turn-table ^o keep all pressure from the 
SHOE, FOR ANCHYLOSIS, LAMINITIS OR toc, and keep up the hot water 

FOUNDER, VILLITIS, AND RINGBONE. 




A, A, Bevel of toe to B. C, C, Bevel 
from quarters to heels, D, D. E, Cen- 
ter of plate, Ih in. wide by i in. thick, 
welded on center of quarters and ta- 
pering each way to P, F, F, F, the 



treatment same as recom- 
mended for founder. 

For ring-bone, keep the 
foot pared as low as can be 



center at E being the highest point by safely done. Ring-bone causes 

I in. to ^ in., on which the horse must -i i , ii -i • ^ ^ 

*,-,., the horse to walk on his heel, 

stand squarely poised. ' 

and this shoe will greatly assist 
in getting over the toe as well as turning around — allowing the 
foot to roll with an easy sort of rocker motion, and with but 
little strain on the aftected parts. I have never failed to make 
a horse travel well on hard roads. The horse can turn himself 
around as easily as though on a turn-table. 



240 



SCIENTIFIC HORSESHOEING. 




Fig. 131. double roller shoe. 
A, A, Sole bearing of the shoe. 

Closely connected with tlie turntable shoe described else- 
where, and in chronic cases of anchylosis of the ankle joint, is 
the rolling motion ball shoe illustrated in Fig. 131. The prac- 
tical result is the freedom of motion it permits to all the joints 
of the foot and limb, to compensate for the stiffness of the 
joint affected. This freedom of movement takes the strain 
from the stiff joint and enables the horse to twist and turn to 
find the necessary relief. The ground surface of the shoe is 
solid metal, the center being the highest and gradually rolling 
or curvinsr to the w^all on all sides. It is the shoe that the 
late trainer of trotting horses, Ben Mace, used with great 
benefit on Sensation in all of his successful trotting races. 



SPECIFIC AND REMEDIAL SHOEING. 



241 




Fig. 132. common sense shoe, to 
correct any faulty movements. 

A, Inside toe calkin. 



Fig. 132. In nearly all 
cases, horses that cut their 
ankles in front place the 
outer side of the foot to the 
ground first, then the foot 
drops quickly to the inside 
heel. As it drops, the ankle 
is thrown inwardly toward 
the opposite foot, and in 
passing the ankle the foot 
hits against the ankle of the 
stationary foot. This will be 
observed if a horse with. this 
habit be walked and his 
front action be carefully 
noted. 

In shoeing a horse of this character, therefore, it should be 
the custom of the farrier to walk the horse up and down on 
level ground to ascertain how he steps on his feet. If he steps 
on the outer toe, first carefully [)are the foot level and straight, 
as directed. After which appl}^ the above shoe, wnth inside toe 
calkin. Then set the outside calk, thus shortening the ground 
surface, and place side heel calkin on the shoe. This will 
allow a broader tread and prevent twisting of the foot as it 
leaves the ground. In the forward movement, the foot will 
turn over the outside toe quickly and carry its ankle out of 
the reach of the cutting ankle. Place the shoe on the foot, 
corresponding w^ith the ankle hit, the toe calkin, A, always 
on the inside. 

This shoe can also be used to correct any faulty step, as the 
ground surface can be increased or diminished without destroy- 
ing the shape of the foot. 



242 



SCraJ^TIFIC HORSESHOEING. 




Fig. 133. When us- 
ing shoe, if the horse toes 
out, place a wide web on 
the inside ; if he toes in, 
place the wide web on the 
outside. If he brushes 
his ankles, shins or knees, 
when the foot is directly 
under the axis of the leg, 
close up the nail holes in 
the toe on the inside, and 
place them in back of 
quarters, as shown in dia- 
gram. The inside is to be 
beveled on ground surface 
as shown at A, A. If the 
shoe is properly placed 
it can not fail to be of 
great service to the horse, 
and do all that is claimed 
for it. 

Fig. 134. This style 
is known as the rolling- 
motion shoe, and is used 
to quicken the action of 
the horse in front, show- 
ing the length of the shoe 
at the heel and the roll at 
the toe, with the nails 
driven in the quarters. 
Fig. 135. The shoe on the opposite page is intended for 
draft horses. If the horse pulls from the outside toe, the out- 
side quarter and heel will wire in. To overcome this tendency, 
I designed this style of shoe. Any ordinary shoe may be 



Fig. 133. fbont foot side wkight 
shoe, to prevent ankle or knee-hit- 
TING. 

A, A, Inside rim to be beveled on the 
ground tread. 




Fig 



134. SIDE VIEW OF FOOT, WITH A 
ROLLING MOTION SHOE. 



SPECIFIC AND REMEDIAL SHOEING. 



243 



used, on -which the toe- 
piece at "A," may be 
welded, which should ex- 
tend from the outside rim 
of the shoe, say from one- 
half inch to an inch. 
Stave np the outside heel 
of the shoe sufficiently to 
get good broad covering 
for the narrowed-in heel 
and quarter. Use the 
round fullering tool to 
swcdge the shoe wide 
enough to obtain good bar 
pressure. Turn up heels 
and weld a calk on the 
outside heel, and fit the 
shoe snugly to the wall 
up to both sides of the 
frog. 

The effect of the pro- 
jecting toe-piece is to brace 
or stay the weak part of 
the ankle and foot, and in 
two or three shoeings the 
foot will become natural 
in its movements, and 
fairly returned to its nor- 
mal state. 

Fig. 136. This is 
another style of shoe for 
draft horses, as explained 
by the references under 
the cut. 




Fig. 135. front foot shoe, for draft 

nOKSE. 

A, Outside toe calk. B, Side-heel calk. 




Fig. 136. front foot shoe, for draft 
horses that wear hard on the out- 
side toe and heel. 

A, Outside toe calk. B, Indicates the 
location of a clip to be turned up on the 
outside rim of the shoe to hold it more 
firmly to the foot. 



244 



SCIENTIFIC HORSESHOEIXG. 




Fig. 137. front foot shoe, to prevent 
paddling, ankle and shin cutting. 

A, Projection at side of toe, to be placed 
on the outside to remedy paddling, and on 
the inside to stop ankle or shin cutting. 




Fig. 138. front foot shoe, designed 

FOR cruised and ULCERATED HEELS OR 
CORN'S, SHOWING THE WALL-BEARING A, A. 



Fig. 137. When the 
foot has an outward dip 
over the inside toe it is 
called padding. Use shoe. 
Fig. 137, placing the pro- 
jecting toe-piece. A, on 
the inside of shoe. If the 
foot has an inward dip in 
leaving the ground, it is 
liable to hit the ankle or 
shin on the opposite leg. 
F(~)r such cases place the 
toe piece on the outside of 
the shoe as this will make 
the foot break straight 
over the toe. The toe- 
piece to extend one-half 
to three-quarter inch be- 
yond the rim of shoe. 

Fig. 138. This shoe 
is easily made. Take a 
shoe stifi' at heels and cut 
it out from wall-bearing 
surfaces to the inner rims, 
as shown at A, A. If 
only one heel is aifected, 
concave on that side, at 
the place of bruise. Pare 
the commissures and bars 
all around the diseased 
part as thin as the safety 
of the foot Avill permit. 
Then punch holes in each 
heel with a round punchy 



SPECIFIC AND REMEDIAL SHOEING. 



245 



large enough to receive a one-sixteenth inch rivet. Then rivet 
a leather on the shoe, covering the hottom of the foot. Fill 
the bottom of the foot with fat pork out of the brine, and nail 
the shoe on lightly. 

Soak the feet in warm water for two hours. The pork will 
draw and assist in removing all soreness from the part. If these 
instructions are closely followed, I will guarantee that the worst 
case of corns can be cured in thirty days. They have never 
failed me. 

Fig. 139. This shoe was 
designed by the late Mr. Dan 
Mace for the noted mare, Lady 
Thorne. Great skill was re- 
quired in adjusting to her feet 
shoes of suitable weight to 
balance her action. This was 
effected by Mr. Mace by fit- 
ting her with shoes as shown 
herewith, weighing 12 ounces 
each in front, and 14 ounces 
each behind ; after which, her 
action was as regular as the 
pendulum of a clock. 

This shoe should fit snugly 

on the foot up to both sides of 

the frog, the heels inclining 

outward. The shoe being long- front part of shoe to ground surface. 

er than the foot at the heels, p' ^' ,^^^^ f^'''' g^^^ually lowered 

toward quarters, 
destroys the down action of 

the flexor perforans, which serves to lessen the quick up ac- 
tion. The length of the heels also gives more ground surface 
to the foot, which requires a longer interval for the horse to get 
over his toe. I have used this shoe with satisfactorv results. 




Fig. 139. hind foot shoe, to bal- 
ance AND SLOW THE ACTION OP THE 
TROTTING HOKSE, DESIGNED BY DAN 
MACE. 

A, A to B, shows gradual bevel of 



24(3 



SCIENTIFIC HORSESHOEING. 




Fig. 140. hind foot shoe, for track 
and road horses. 
^Vell beveled on ground surface, as 
shown by letters A, A, A. 



Fig. 140. This slioc is 
made of steel, and is well 
beveled on the ground sur- 
face. If the horse is a long 
strider, turn up small heel 
calkins so as to serve as a 
check to the foot in landing ; 
if a short strider, heel cal- 
kins are not required. Fit 
the shoe the same length as 
the foot (as shown in this 
figure), so as not to retard the 
down action of the flexor 
perforans. By following the 
above directions the speed 
of the horse will not be re- 
tarded. 

Fig. 141. This hind 
foot shoe is intended for an 
extreme case of ankle hit- 
ting, where the horse hits 
with the inside point of the 
toe. This occurs with horses 
that stand in a faulty posi- 
tion having their toes turned 
in. In such cases a toe-calk 
should be placed on the in- 
side, at the striking point 
of the foot. A, and also a 
side heel calkin, B. This 
will prevent any thing like 
an inward dip of the foot, 
as the horse starts, and will cause an outward dip sufiicient to carry 
the foot beyond the ankle of the opposite leg without striking it. 




Fig. 141. 



HIND FOOT SHOE, FOR ANKLE 
HITTING. 



A, Inside toe calk 
calk. 



B, Inside heel 



SPECIFIC A'SD REMEDIAL SHOEING. 



247 




Fig. 142. This shoe, 
if properly made and ad- 
justed to tlie foot, will not 
fail to do all that is claimed 
for it. Trotting horses vary 
so greatly that no rule can 
be laid down applicable to 
all, beyond the general ob- 
servation to shoe each horse 
in accordance with his shape, 
build and gait, with difler- 
ently weighted and con- 
structed shoes. 

The shoe in question 
should be used only on 
horses with their hind legs 
inclined to stand under the 
body. On close examination 

of the hind legs from the hock, we find the two nind feet close 
together, and the legs open between the hocks ; we notice the 
pasterns from the union of the upper pastern to the lower por- 
tion of the cannon-bone leaning outwardly. Dropping plumb 
lines from the inner and outer sides of the hock to the ground, 
we observe that both will hang, the one on the outer and the 
other toward the outer side, and that the weight does not pass 
through the axis of the leg and foot. In proportion, therefore, 
as these lines are distant from their normal position, the outer 
branch of the shoe will require to be turned outwardly to meet 
the vertical, and as the inside heel calkin of the shoe is lowered, 
just so much will the upper pastern be brought near the center 
line throug-h axis of foot and leg. 

The inside branch of shoe is to fit snugly to the inner wall 
of foot. The outside branch of shoe, extending well back of 
heel and leg, will serve as a brace to support the upper pastern 



Fig. 142. hind foot shoe, to widen 

THE action. 

A, Inside branch. B, Ending of in- 
side toe calk. C, Ending of outside 
toe calk. Lines A B, A C sliow circle 
of toe. 



248 



SCIENTIFIC HOKSKSHOEINO. 





and the shank or cannon-bone. When the horse in motion lands 
his foot upon the ground, the heel of the foot on the inside be- 
ing the lowest, the inner muscle will bear the greater strain ; 
and as the foot leaves the ground, the outer muscle will spring 

back, carrying the foot out- 
wardly over the outside part 
of the toe, thus widening the 
tride as the foot leaves the 
ground, and allowing the hind 
leg to pass the fore foot and 
avoid speedy cutting. 

Fig. 143. To equalize 
the wearing. — This represents 
a style of shoe adapted for 
horses that wear heavily on one 
side of the foot. This often 
Fig. 143. hind^^foot side .weight ^^^^^,^ ^^,^^^ ^^_^ inclination of 

the pastern to lean in or out, 

thus causing the shoe to wear 
more on the side to which the 
foot and pastern leans than on 
the other. If the wear is great- 
est on the outside, place the 
wide branch of the shoe on 
that side ; and, similarly, if 
greatest wear occurs on the in- 
side have the wide web of the 
shoe on that side. In this way 
the wearing of the shoe will 
Fig. 144. hind foot shoe, to pre- |^g equalized and the foot and 

VENT ANKLE CUTTING. ^ 

A to B, Inside heel calkin gradu.illy limb will be correspondingly 
tliinned. benefitted. 

F'ig.144 represents a pattern of shoe to prevent ankle cut- 
ting on horses with long oblique pasterns leaning inward and 




— ^ 




SPECIFIC AND REMEDIAL SHOEING. 



249 



the toes standing outward. The heel calk shown is to be on the- 
inside branch of the shoe gradually tapering toward the heel 
from A to B, as this will tend to straighten the pasterns by rais- 
ing the inside of the foot more directly under the leg. Usually 
it is found that with pasterns of the kind in question, the inside 
heel is shorter on the ground tread than the outside, and this 
shoe will supply the deficiency and thus avoid the striking or 
cutting of the ankle as stated. 

Fig. 145. This shoe is 
made as light as can be con- 
veniently worn, and extends 
well back at the heels, the cal- 
kins behind being slightly 
higher than the front toe calks. 
The shoe, being well rolled on 
the ground surface, will allow 
the horse in his forward move- 
ment to get over the toe with 
but little strain on the affected 
parts. 

In shoeing for spavin, the 
heel calkins are to be made to 
suit the emergencies. For this 
trouble, first pare the foot ac- outer rim of toe at B. 
cording to directions given in Chapter lY. Place the foot 
on the floor and pick up the other foot. If the horse does not 
stand down at the heel, the heel calkins must be left high enough 
on the shoe to make up for the deficiency; for in a spavined 
leg the foot always has two motions, first the horse drops on 
toe, then back on heel. It is therefore plain to see that the 
heel calkins behind should be higher than in front. Again, if a 
horse is restless on his hind feet, or stands with one foot twisted 
in and placed with the heel on the coronet of the other, it 
is clearly indicative of a spavin of some nature, whether 




Fig. 145. hind foot shoe, designed 
for cukve, spavin and sore tendons. 

A, A, Bevel from front of toe calks to 



250 



SCIENTIFIC HORSESHOEING. 



I 




obscure or visible. I have used this style of shoe with admirable 

success. 

Fig. 146. refers to calking 
of the coronet. This is often 
done by horses treading on the 
coronet with either or both 
heels of their shoes when stand- 
ing in the stall, cutting and 
bruising it, oftentimes produc- 
ing serious lameness. When 
toe and heel calkins are re- 
quired, apply this shoe. 

The inside heel calkin is 
welded lengthwise on the shoe, 

Fig. 14G. hind t-oot shoe, to vkevent and set back from the heel fully 

BRUISING OR CALKING THE CORONKT. • i i -| c i 

. ^ ^ ^ ,,_,,.,,, an inch, the ground suriace be- 
A, Front toe calk B, Inside heel ' ° 

eaik. ing beveled to a thin edge. 

If both heel calkins are placed 
on the coronet, weld a side heel 
on each side of the shoe, bevel- 
ing the heels as before. By so 
doing, all danger of cutting or 
bruising the coronet is over- 
come. If plain shoes are used, 
bevel the heels on the ground 
surface and shoe short. 

Fig. 147. A great many 
horses are in the habit of twist- 
ing their feet when liftmg 
them from the ground, which 
makes them liable to interfere 

KINS, TO PREVENT TWISTING EITHER ^^J ^^^^^^ ^J^^'j. ^uklcS Or foOt 
WAY, IN OR OUT. 

A, Toe calk, extending over the side, 
as directed below. 




Fig. 147. hikd foot shoe, for 
horses requiring toe and heel cal- 



joints. Some will twist their 
foot in ; others will twist it out. 



SPECIFIC AND REMEDIAL SHOEING. 



251 



By applying the shoe seen in the diagram, if the twist of the 
foot is in, let the toe calk. A, project over the outside; if vice 
versa, change the projection of the toe to the inside. This 
style of shoe will prevent the twisting of the foot, and enable 
the horse to get straight over the foot in front. 

Fig. 148. This shoe I 
use for wheeled feet. Tak- 
ing the weight from front of 
shoe lessens the weight on 
the extensor. In the flexing 
of the foot, changing the 
weight from quarters to 
heels, the foot will be easily 
lifted. The web of shoe will 
cover the quarters and wired- 
in heels, gradually restoring 
them to their natural con- 
dition. 

I have successfully used 
this shoe for preventing forg- Fig. 148. hind foot shoe for wheeled 
ing. It will be readily ad- 
mitted that if weight in the 
toe of a shoe will lengthen 
the stride, reversing the weight will shorten the stride. 

Fig. 149. The shoe on the following page is designed for 
trotting horses that carry their feet close to the ground. Many 
horses shod with this shoe have won races which would have 
been lost to them had they worn the ordinary shoe. 

It is plain that just in proportion as the thickness of the 
shoe increases at the toe, the stride will be lessened ; and in 
proportion as the scoop is deepened, the stride will be length- 
ened. A great advantage gained in the use of this shoe is, that 
as the foot lands, it slides forward and hardens the earth. In 
the act of springing from the ground, the outer rim at letter B, 
17 




A, A, A, Outside bevel at toe. 
B,B,B, Inside bevel at toe. 



252 



SCIENTIFIC HORSESHOEING. 




A, A, Width of scoop at toe. 
Scoop to be beveled inwardly to C. 



the high point gives a solid 
catch ; and it is evident, there- 
fore, that the advantage gained 
in landing is not lost in spring- 
ing off' the ground. This back- 
ward and forward friction is 
very tiresome to the horse, and 
may be compared to the resist- 
ance experienced by the human 
being running over sand and 
snow. 

This shoe is easily made by 
laying the center of the toe on 
Fig. 149. hind foot scooped-toe ^he horn of the anvil with face 

ROLLING MOTION SHOE, TO PREVENT 

SLIPPING WHEN SPRINGING FROM THE dowuward aud hammering the 

GROUND. 

■g scoop out, letting the heel of 
shoe project well beyond the 
break of heel. It affords great 
bracing or stay to the back sinews. 
This shoe is designed for use 
upon horses with long pasterns. 
Short upright pasterns can be shod 
shorter, as there is less strain on 
back tendons. If the back sinews 
are sore, put on heel calkins. 

Fig. 150. This is a pattern 
of front foot shoe for line trotters. 
Horses of this class, when up to 
Fig. 150. front foot shoe for line gpeed, carry their hind limbs in 

TROTTERS, TO PREVENT SCALPING. ^ '' 

A, Bevel around inner rim to B, ^i^^^ with the fore, and great care 
extending around the heels and ig required in shoeing them lest 

quarters, B, B, and carried forward i i • i i . 

to near front toe nails. The heels they scalp the hind shin or coronet 

of shoe also to be beveled at B, B, ^s it passes under the front foot. 

on ground surface, with the angle 

of the foot. The thinner the front shoes are 




SPECIFIC AND EEMEDIAL SHOEING. 



253 



the less liability there will be 
to injury in this way. The 
shoe must also be beveled at 
the heels on the ground surface 
with the angle of the hoof, as 
indicated in diagram 150, and 
as explained with Fig. 28. The 
weight of the shoes must be 
determined by the driver, as 
some horses require more 
weight than other in order to 
balance their action. 

Fig. 151 represents a bar 
shoe for the same general pur- 
pose as described for Fig. 150 ; 
but as some horses are more 
tender in the heels than others, 
this style of bar shoe may be 
substituted for the open shoe. 

Fig. 152 indicates the pat- 
tern of shoe recommended to 
prevent side or back slipping 
on hard tracks. Whatever is 
gained by a forward slide is 
not lost, for the purchase ob- 
tained by the use of this style 
of rasp-cut shoe will enable the 
horse to land and spring with 
better confidence, speed and 
endurance than by any other 
form. This shoe should be 
made of steel and after the 
teeth are cut, they are to be 
tempered in oil. 




Fig. 151. front foot bar shoe, to 
be used when required on line 
trotters. 

A to B, Bevel around inner and 
outer rim same as in Fig. 117. The 
dot shown in center of bar is rivet 
hole for leather when used under the 
shoe. 




Fig. 152. front foot rasp cut bar 

SHOE, to prevent SLIPPING ON HARD 
TRACKS. 

The dot in center of bar is rivet hole 
to secure leather when required. 



254 



SCIENTIFIC HORSESHOEING. 




Fig. 153. 
grab shoe 

TOE. 



HIND FOOT RASP CUT 
WITH DEEP SCOOP AT 



Fig. 153 shows a hind foot, 
rasp-cut grab shoe, to prevent 
slipping on hard tracks, as ex- 
plained with Fig. 152. The extra 
scoop at front of toe will give an 
additional purchase and firm 
ground hold to the foot when 
rising. 

Fig. 154. Front foot raised 
split-bar steel shoe, for contracted 
hoofs, sore tendons, side bones, 
corns, bruised heels, etc. This 
shoe is to be made of steel in 
order that the bar may spring 

Scoop from A to B, as shown, the ^^der the weight of the horse, 
outer rim at A to be flush with 
face of shoe. Make it in the same way as 

other bar shoes, and after the 

shoe is shaped and fitted cut 

the bar in center at A, A, 

then commence at B, B, to 

raise the bar say i to | inch, 

keeping both faces flat. In 

cases where leather is to be 

used to obtain frog pressure, 

fit the leather to cavity in 

bar under the shoe, punch 

holes in center of bar and at 

B, B, as shown by dots, for 

reception of rivets, then bevel 

around the toe of shoe on 

Fig. 154. front foot raised split ground tread as shown. 

BAR SHOE, FOR CONTRACTION, SORE TEN- ^ ^yj^^ ^J^^ ^^^^ prOpcHv 

DONS, SIDE BONES, CORNS, BRUISED HEELS, r r ./ 

ETC. leveled and balanced, as per 




SPECIFIC AND REMEDIAJ. SHOEING. 



2o5 




Fig. 23, this shoe will be found 
very efiective for use in any of 
the cases mentioned. 

Fig. 155. Front foot scooped 
toe or grab shoe, with side heel 
calks for trotting and pacing 
horses inclined to twist or slip in 
landing or rising. 

It is a waste of power and 

loss of motion for horses to twist 

or turn in any way out of a direct 

forward line, and by use of the fig. loo. front foot bar scooped- 

scooped-toe in this shoe we have ^ ^'^ ^."'^^ ^°°^- 

lo prevent slipping, scoop the toe 
an excellent corrective for this from A to B, around to C, C. 

D, D, Side heel calks. Dot in cen- 
tendency, as well as a valuable ter of bar, rivet hole for leather 

., . , ,^. when required, 

aid in speed getting. 

Fig. 156 is a new form 
of double rolling motion bar 
shoe, designed to quicken 
the action in front, and thus 
prevent stumbling, forging 
and speedy cutting. By the 
increased knee action which 
this shoe gives it will also 
relieve soreness of tendons 
and feet. When used for 
sore tendons, after the foot 
is properly leveled, build up 
the heels to take ofi" all pos- 
sible pressure from the back 
of the leg, by inserting a 
thick piece of sole leather 
under the shoe to cover the 
bottom of foot, graduall}^ 
thinning the leather from 




Fig. 1o(J. front foot center bearing, 
double rolling motion bar shoe, to 
quicken the front action, prevent 
speedy cutting, forging, stumbling, etc. 

A, A, High center point in shoe, grad- 
ually beveled forward to B, nt toe, and 
back to C, at heel bar. D, Side view of 
shoe, representing the foot-bearing face 
by straight line, and the ground face by 
the easy bevels each way from center. 
The thickness of center is to be regulated 
to suit the necessities of the case. 



256 



SCIENTIFIC HORSESHOEING. 



heel to toe. Then in case the weight is to be reduced, after the 
shoe is nailed on, the leather can be cut out around the inside 
of shoe. 

Fig. 157. Hind foot scooped toe or grab shoe, to prevent 
speedy cutting. This is a great shoe for speedy, close gaited 
horses. The scoop at toe secures the foothold and prevents 
slipping backward when leaving the ground, while the inner 
and outer bevels on shoe prevent the cutting or bruising of front 
quarters when in rapid motion. This shoe is to be made thicker 
at the toe and gradually beveled thinner to the heels. 




Fig. 157. hind foot scooped toe 
grab shoe, to prevent speedy 

CUTTING. 

Scoop at toe to be deepened in- 
ward from A to B. C, D, Bevels 
around inner and outer rims of 
branches. 




Fig. 158. front foot scooped grab 

TOE BAR shoe, TO PREVENT SPEED HORSES 
SLIPPING ON SOFT TRACKS. 

A, Outer rim of toe to be of same 
height on ground tread as the four 
calkins; the scoop to bevel in to B, 
which is thinned down a little below 
the web of the shoe, and extends to 
Bides, G, C. Side heel and quarter 
calkins, D, D,D,D, wedge or /^shaped, 
with points upward. These calkins 
are to be of same height as the grab 
toe from A to C, C. 



Fig. 158. With this style of shoe made as directed by 
references underneath the cut, the foot can not slip either to the 



SPECIFIC AND REMEDIAL SHOEING. 



257 




rear or sides, and by being easily lifted from muddy tracks with 
little friction, the horse grows surer footed and less leg weary 
or jaded than would otherwise be the case with the ordinary toe 
and heel calked shoe. 

Fig. 159. Any ordinary 
shoe may be adapted to this 
form by cutting off both of 
the branches to the required 
length, then by using a bar, 
say f in. thick by | in. wide, 
long enough to extend across 
the quarters, and welding the 
tongue piece on bar to reach 
back and cover the frog: be- 
tween the heels, after which 
weld to the shoe and put on 
calks at toe, sides and heel of 
equal height, as shown at A, Fig. 1 59. fkoxt footthree-quarteh 
B, B, and C. The cleft of frog ^^o^' ^'^^ corns, bruised heels, side 

, , -r,^ 111 -, BONES, QUARTER CRACKS, ETC. 

IS marked at i), and the dressed 

A, B, B, C, C, Toe quarters and 
wall at iL, Ji. in almost all heel calks. D, Cleft of frog. E, E, 
cases of this kind pressure is Bruised heels. F, F, Lower margin of 
to be kept off the frog, and 

this can easily be done by bending the broad tongue piece away 
from the foot. This shoe may, if desired, also be made plain, 
that is, without calks, and in either form will be found of 
valuable service if applied for the purposes intended with foot 
prepared, as per Fig. 23. 

Fig. 160 (next page). A horse thus affected endeavors to re- 
move the weight from the back of his foot by walking on his toe. 
This shoe can be used equally well for horses and mules — the 
heel calks to be high enough in each instance to level the heel 
with the ground, then as the weight can be borne on the heels, 
the calks will gradually be worn down and give indications in 



258 



SCIENTIFIC HORSESHOEING. 



this way of returning soundness. The toe-piece or front clip is 
to be turned up at same angle as the front of hoof and project 
forward to suit the case in hand, as the higher the animal stands 
on his toe, the longer and higher the spur should be, varying 
from one to one and one-half inches. With proper attention to 
these points and to leveling the foot, as per Fig. 23, this shoe 
can be applied with success. 




Fig. 160. side view op hoof shod for relief of sprained and con- 
tracted TENDONS, WOUNDS IN THE FOOT, ETC. 
(For plan of shoe, see Pig. 162.] 
A, Coronary cavity. B, Outer wall. C, Side of shoe. D, Toe piece 
turned up. E, Heel calk. 

Fig. 161. The same method of preparing the foot as de- 
scribed for the preceding figure, is applicable to all horses or 
mules inclined to walk on their toes. 




Fig. 161. side view of another style op shoe similar to Fig. 160. 
(For plan of shoe, see Fig. IfiS.) 



SPECIFIC AND REMEDIAL SHOEING. 



259 




rj Vj 



Fig. 162. ground surface 
of mule shoe shown in side 
VIEW OF HOOF, Fig. ItJO. 

A, B, Projecting toe piece. 





Fig. 164. wall-bearing 
surface op shoe shown in 
Figs. 161 and 163. 

From these figures 
(160 to 164) a correct idea 
maybe obtained for mak- 
ing and applying the 
shoes for the purpose 
named. 



Fig. 163. ground tread op 
shoe shown in side view op 
HOOF, Fig. 161. 



260 



SCIENTIFIC HORSESHOEING. 




Fig. IG5. ground surface of 

BIGHT HIND FOOT SPREADING 
SHOE, TO PREVENT CROSS-FIRING. 

A, Heel calk to be turned up 
at end of long outside branch. 
B, B, B, Ground surface of shoe, 
the dotted line showing its pro- 
jection over the outside of foot. 




Fig. 166. wall-bearing sur- 
face OF same shoe as SHOWN IN 

Fig. 132. 

A, A, Bevel on outside rim of 
shoe, from wall bearing to ground 
tread. C, C, C, Flat wall bear- 
ing. 



Fig. 165. Cross-firing is caused 
by unbalanced feet and improperly 
constructed sboes. Almost all speed 
horses require the sharp outside edge 
of their front shoes to be taken 
ofi' on the ground surface to pre- 
vent scalping. By examining and 
comparing the stride of the cross- 
firing foot, it will be found that the 
stride of that member is shorter 
than its fellow by four to six inches, 
causing an occasional hitch or hop 
in the gait. In cases of this kind 
place a cross-firing shoe like Fig. 
165 on the short striding foot, to 
weigh four to six ounces heavier 
than the one on the opposite foot. 
Where the horse cross-fires with 
1 )th hind feet have them shod with 
hoes of equal weight. By Jower- 
ig the inside toe and raising the 
itside heel on the long outside 
1 ranch of the shoe, the feet will be 
lade to stand wider apart on the 
round and will be thus carried out- 
ard from the body, passing the front 
I set without hitting or bruising the 
iside ankles or shins. The success 
f this style of shoe is greatly de- 
pendent on the good judgment of 
the shoer. 

Fig. 167 (on opposite page). 
In bad cases of dragging, the ends 
of toe calk should project over the 



SPECIFIC AND REMEDIAL SHOEING. 



261 



front rim of shoe one half to 
one inch, the projection being 
greater in proportion with the 
increase of the trouble. Both 
ends of the calk should ex- 
tend equally to a straight line 
across the front. The clip 
should be turned up on same 
angle with the front of the 
hoof. 

If the foot is leveled, as 
directed with Fig. 23, this 
shoe will prevent the worst 
form of dragging, as when in 
motion the weight passes over 
the projecting toe calks the 
foot will be lifted with a quick 
upward movement. If the front 
toe of hoof is worn blunt by 
dragging, the line of wall 
must be carried down to the 
ground tread by making the 
shoe extend forward to meet 
the angle of the wall, and thus 
secure the full length of ground 
tread. This same style of shoe 
will in many cases stop forging 
or clicking. 

Fig. 168. Hind foot shoe 
to prevent ankle hitting. In 
order to determine how this shoe 
is to be worn the horse should 
be seen both in motion and at 
rest. If the foot twists in as the 




Fig. 1G7. HIND FOOT SHOE, TO PREVENT 
DRAGGING AND FORGING. 

A, Reversed bent toe calk from inner 
center of web, extending over each 
Bide of toe rim. B, Center of clip, to 
be turned up in front between the pro- 
jecting prongs of calk. 




Fig. 168. hind foot shoe, to pre- 
vent ANKLE hitting. 

A, Toe calk on outside rim of 
shoe. B, Extension of outside 
branch with heel calk at end. 
C, Inside branch, with h>'A bev- 
eled from ground tread in line with 
hoof. 



262 SCIENTIFIC HORSESHOEING. 

heel leaves the ground he will hit back of inside heel nail. I 
have never known a horse that twisted his heels out ever to cut 
or hit his ankles. A shoe made as per Fig. 168 will turn the 
foot outward from the ankle and thus avoid any interference. 
The outside heel calk at B should be as high as the case may 
require, say from f to J inch. The inside branch to be gradually 
thinned down from last nail hole to end at C, and the shoe to be 
fitted snug to the foot around that side. 

Use and Abuse of Tips. — Tips should not be used indis- 
criminately, the build and construction of a horse's legs and 
pasterns must be duly considered ; for instance, tips will be in- 
jurious if horse has long sloping pasterns whereby the line of 
weight inclines forward out of the vertical. On the other hand, 
short upright pasterns where legs are perpendicular or inclined 
back under the body, have feet at such an angle (say 55°) for 
the successful use of tips. Such horses wear the toes of shoes 
more than the heels, and a toe-tip is all that is needed, therefore, 
to protect the hoof from undue wear. A great majority of 
horses, however, are adapted to the use of tips, and I think they 
would be better off from such use on the front feet than other- 
wise. By wearing tips the front feet would escape corns, bruised 
heels, quarter-cracks, contraction, thrush, sore tendons, leg 
weariness, interference or cutting and such like ills to which 
horseflesh is heir — more from clumsy, misfitting shoes, than 
from all other causes combined. In some sections of the country 
too, w^here, in wet weather, the soil is sticky, heavy clay» 
horses are apt to pick up " balls," which pack and wedge up in 
the foot under full shoes and becoming dry and hard, soon 
causes lameness, whereas the use of tips would avoid such re- 
sults. When used, narrow tips are far preferable to wide ones, 
as it is well known that horses do not wear out from overwork 
so much as from mismanagement and overweighting of the 



SPECIFIC AND REMEDIAL SHOEING. 263 

feet. Good judgment is required in applying tips: first, exam- 
ine the formation of wall and sole; if the sole is cup-form or 
well arched, this style of foot can be most successfully tipped. 
The foot should not be pared off at toe and heels so low for tips 
as for full shoes, as the tips have to be let in the wall flush with 
the ground tread. In this way the angle of foot is in no wise 
changed and the wear will be even all over. From two to three 
nails on each side of tips will sutfice to hold them on firmly. 
Punch for a low, short, thick hold inclining the nail out- 
wardly to avoid cramping the foot. Tips can be used to ad- 
vantage on colts for first shoeings in breaking them, also on dirt 
roads and the natural exercise of frog pressure will develop the 
foot into a strong and healthy organ. The tips are to be bev- 
eled oft* on the outer edge of the web, so as to follow the angle 
of the foot. 

Sharpening, or Winter Shoeing. — In many instances, 
winter shoeing presents fresh difficulties, for the shoes have then 
to do a double duty — to secure the foot-hold as well as to pro- 
tect the foot. Toe and heel calkins are almost always employed 
as best suiting the requirements of each case. In all cases, 
however, these should be short and sharp, as then the foot will 
be kept nearer the ground, at the same time they will answer 
every purpose for a firm catch upon the hard or slippery ice, and 
the horse will be less liable to rock sidewise, thus avoiding in- 
jury or joint lameness. For ordinary workhorses, toe and heel 
calkins are all that are required ; and, as a rule, it is better to 
sharpen the outside heel calk lengthwise, or from front to back, 
as by so doing side slips will be avoided and strains on the joints 
and tendons be prevented. For speed horses, side heel calks 
are better for the front shoes than mere end calks, as the horse 
is not so apt to strike and pull oft" the front shoes with his hind 



264 



SCIENTIFIC HOKSESHOEING. 



feet when at speed; also, the feet will not slip in or out so easily 
this way. The hind feet can in most cases be shod with ordinary 
turned up heels, as this will assist in preventini^ the " calking" 
of one hind foot by the other. Side heel calks ought to be 
placed on the inside branch of the shoe. Hear the heel, as this 
will lessen the danger of wounding the opposite member. 

All about Calks. — It should, however, never be lost sight 
of that the shorter, sharper and smaller the calkins are, so long 
as they answer the purpose for which thej^ are intended, so much 
the better for the foot that wears them. High calkins, while 
they confer no firmer foothold, may easily become a source of 
injury, both to the foot itself and the limb at large. It is only 
from that portion of the catch which enters the ground surface 
that the horse derives any benefit in the shape of foothold ; and 
it must be apparent to every one that long calkins have no ad- 
vantages in this respect over moderately short ones on hard, un- 
even ground, while they present many other disadvantages, on 
which I have already laid particular stress in Chaps. IV and VI. 




Fig. 169. kight fkoxt shoe. 
A, Toe and licel calkins, inside shoe. 



Bracing or Crutch 
Shoes. — Fig. 169 is a 
style of shoe for the right 
front foot, used to brace 
up the weak ankle or 
pastern that leans in, so 
as to prevent the horse 
from hitting and bruising 
the inside of the front 
leg. I have used this 
shoe with the most satis- 
factory results. 



SPECIFIC AND REMEDIAL SHOEING. 



265 



Fig. 170 is intended for 
the left front foot, when the 
pastern leans out. As the 
left foot passes over the out- 
side toe it takes an inward 
sweep, thus hitting and 
bruising the opposite leg. 
The projection of the toe 
calkin. A, beyond the outer 
edge of the shoe, must suit 
the case in hand. I have 
known of a toe calkin in 
such instance to project at 
least an inch. The outside 
heel calkin, set as at C, will 
materially support the out- 
side pastern. 





Fig. 171. split bar shoe. 

A, Outside heel calkin. B, B, Bevel 
around toe. C, Split bar. D, Inside heel 
calkin. 



Fig. 170. left front shoe. 

A, Toe calkin. B, Inside heel calkin. 
C, Outside heel calkin. 



The use of this shoe 
will be found of practical 
benefit when outside quar- 
ters are wired under and 
badly contracted. Such 
defects cause the quarters- 
to wear excessively on 
the outside. The outside 
heel calkin and the inside 
heel calkin should be set 
as at A and D, respect- 
ively, thus increasing the 
full ground tread, while 
lessening the inside. Bev- 
eling around the toe, B,. 
B, according to the neces- 
sities of the case in hand^ 



266 



SCIENTIFIC HORSESHOEING. 




Fig. 172. brcad bar beveled shoe. 
B, B, Bevel— broadest at toe, lessen- 
iuj' toward the heel. 



allows the foot to break over 
the toe more easily and pre- 
vents stumbling. Allowing 
the bar to remain open, as 
at C, gives the heels greater 
freedom to expand and con- 
tract at each footfall. Plac- 
ing the calkins as shown in 
diagram tends to equalize 
the pressure through cleft 
of frog and center of leg, 
thus strengthening the weak 
joints. If the foot is pared 
and the shoe made and fit- 
ted according to instructions, 
a decided improvement both 
in the foot and its action will result in straightforward movement. 
The shoe illustrated in Fig. 172 gives through the broad, 

wide bar a strong frog pres- 
sure for w^ak heels and 
quai'ters. It is Avell con- 
caved on sole bearina: sur- 
face, being of greatest bevel 
at the toe and lessening to- 
ward the heels. "Weak feet 
always obtain the best of 
protection from a stiif, wide- 
webbed shoe, and this style 
can be successfully used for 
quarter cracks, sore tendons 
and flat feet. 

This form of shoe (Fig. 

Fig. 173. left hind shoe. 173) will serve as a crutch 

A Calkin. fo support weak pastern 




SPECIFIC AXJ) REMEDIAL SHOEING. 



267 



joints — the cause of a horse's cutting defect. Before shoeing, 
observe both from the front and rear how niucli the ankle leans 
in, and place the side calkin as shown in diagram, high enough 
to straighten the pastern under the foot and leg, bearing in 
mind always that the main object is to strengthen the weak 
parts of the pastern joints. 

The figure herewith (Fig/ 174) represents a pattern of a 
bracing shoe to correct cut- 
ting inside point of toe, and 
is one of the most effective 
of the bracing shoes. Place 
calkin at inside of toe, as 
at A, to serve as a brace; 
another at outside, as B, and 
a side heel calkin on the 
outside branch. The effect 
of this shoe will be to cause 
the foot to drop outward 
and allow the opposite foot 
to pass the ankle without 
hittino^ or bruisins: it. 

The shoe following (Fig. 
175) is designed to prevent 

ankle hitting. The foot in its motion strikes the opposite 
hind ankle at B. Weld side heel calkin as at B. Grradually 
thin down heel of shoe from inside heel calkin to inside 
branch of heel. Notice the forward movement of the foot, as 
it leaves the ground. Place a toe calkin as at A, allowing 
it to project beyond the outside of the shoe from one-half to 
three-quarters of an inch. Turn heel calkin on at outside 
branch of shoe, and thus shaped it will prevent an inward 
dip as the foot leaves the ground, thus obviating the ankle 
bruisinir. 




Fig. 174. shoe to correct cutting in- 
side PoiNT of toe. 



18 



268 



SCIENTIFIC HORSESHOEING. 




Fig. 175. shoe to prkvext axki.e hitting. 
A, Projecting toe calkin. B, Side heel calkin. 

Fi^. 176 is another model of hind shoe to prevent ankle 
hitting. If the toe of 
the foot tilts in, place an 
inside toe calkin as at A, 
and a side heel calkin as 
at B. Then turn a heel 
on the outside branch of 
the shoe. Always en 
deavor by studying th 
action to locate the caus 
of ankle hitting, as th 
same style of shoe tha 
will stop one horse wi' 
not always stop anothei 
I have used all the fore 
going styles of shoes with 
the best results on differ- Fig. 170. shoe to prevent ankle hitting. 
ent horses. A, B, Inside toe and heel calkins. 




SPECIFIC AND REMEDIAL SHOEING. 



269 



A, Coffia bono. 

B, Navicular bone. 

C, I-ower pastern bone. 

D, Upper pastern bone. 

E, Cannon bone. 

F, Velvety tissue, or sen- 
sitive sole. 

G, Ilorny Mali. 
H, Ilorny sole. 
I, Ilorr-y frog. 

K, Plantar cushion, or 
sensitive sole. 

L, Horny laminte. 

M, Sensitive laminae. 

N, Front extensor tendon. 

O, Perforatus (superficial 
flexor. 

P, Perforans (deep flexor 
of the foot, inserted under 
the coffin bone. 

R, Suspensory ligament of 
the fetlock. 

S, Sesamoid bone (dotted 
line). 

T, Branch of perforatus 
tendon attached to lower 
pastern bone. 

IT, line of deflection from 
V, caused by knuckling. 




'J / 



Fig. 177. sectional view of foot. 



Knuckling Shoes.— Fig. 177 is a sectional view of foot, 
lower and upper pastern bones, and end of cannon or shank 
bone. The line from C to Y shows the natural direction of the 
foot, when the coffin bone is in a healthy, normal condition ; C 
to U shows the deflection from the natural course in a bad case 
of knuckling. The difierence may be readily seen by compar- 
ing Fig. 177 with Fig. 178, after the shoe (Fig. 179; and Fig. 
180, showing section of ground tread) is nailed to the foot. 
This shoe (Figs. 179 and 179a) is easily made by welding toe 
calk in front of shoe, as shown (Fig. 179a). The height of 
the toe calk should vary according to the case in hand. The 
heels of shoe should be beveled on the ground tread, as shown 
at B, B, Fig. 179 ; and Fig. 179a shows a side view of the front 



270 



SCIENTIFIC HORSESHOEING. 



toe calkin on 
ground tread, 
and the point, C, 
at which to com- 
mence to bend 
the front part of 
shoe down from 
the toe. Fig. 178 
shows the posi- 
tion of the pas- 
terns and foot 
after it has been 
dressed and the 
shoe nailed to it. 
I have been 
Tery successful 
in using this style 
of shoe in ex- 
treme cases of 
knuckling, espe- 





FiGs. 179 AND 179a. 



Fig. 178. 

cially in colts of various 
ages, from six months to 
two years. Even aged 
horses can be thus bene- 
fited. This explanation 
should be sufiicient, as the 
cuts speak for themselves. 
By using tlie shoe as here 
illustrated, tlie pastern can 
be quickly straightened 
and the ground tread of 
foot be forced to its natu- 
ral position. The ten- 
dons, ligaments and bones 



SPECIFIC AND REMEDIAL SHOEING. 



271 



of a colt are naturally teiuk-r, iind that is the time for this treat- 
ment for kimcklinij^ ; for if the colt he allowed to run until it 
has matured into a full-grown horse, not only may it be impossi- 
ble to effect a permanent cure, but after the members become con- 
tracted it is somewhat doubtful if any cure at all can be effected. 

This invaluable form of 
front shoe I designed to 
remedy either an inner or 
outer contraction of the 
quarter. The ground tread 
is to be changed as shown 
at Aj, Punch the nail holes 
inclining outwardly. By do- 
ing this the nails open the 
foot to some extent, and 
have a tendency to unlock 
the bound quarter and give 
almost instant relief. 
Fig. ISO. ground tread. ^ig. 181 illustrates the 

A, Showing change of ground tread. sole, or wall bearing con- 
cave on sound natural quar 
ters, as shown at A, and bevel 
out as shown at B, the bevel 
being outwardly from the in 
ner web of the shoe to the 
outer mars^in. Astheweis^ht 
of the horse falls on tlie shot 
it will have a tendency t> 
press the contracted quai 
ters outwardly at every foot 
fall and give relief to the 
affected parts. 

Fig. 181. sole bearing. 





272 



SCIENTIFIC HORSESHOEING. 



This shoe (Fig. 182) I 
have always used, with the 
best results, in preventing toe 
dragging, and in many cases to 
stop forging. Always exam- 
ine the pastern before shoeing. 
If it stands back, place a side 
heel calkin on the shoe, to 
raise it up on a line with the 
front part of the foot, w'hich is 
the correct position at rest. 
This will cause the joints of 
the pastern to work smoothly 
and properly. To make this 
shoe, take an old rasp, weld 
on the front toe of shoe and 




Fig. 182. shoe to prevent toe 
dragging. 









Fig. 183. shoe to prevent toe dragging— side view. 



SPECIFIC AND REMEDIAL SHOEING. 



273 



cut oft" the length to that extent which the exigencies of each 
case require. This projecting toe calkin should be extended, on 
experimental trial, till the horse no longer strikes and wears 
away the hind hoof at the toe, by interference with the diag- 
onally opposite front shoe. 

Fig. 183 shows the shoe, known as the shoe to prevent toe 
dragging, nailed to the foot, the extension of the shoe beyond 
the toe, on a line with the front pastern, and front wall of foot 
to ground tread. The dotted line shows where the front wall of 
foot ought to come. Making the shoe to extend over, it takes 
the foot longer to get over the toe and retards the action 
behind; allowing the front foot to get out of the way of the 
hind foot, will thus prevent forging. I h:;ve always found this 
shoe to prevent toe dragging and forging very useful. 

This half bar shoe (Fig. 184) I use for contraction in the 
outside heel and quarters, in case the frog is pushed to one 
side. I place the bar of the shoe so as to rest lightly on one- 
half of the frog — that is, on the side of the foot wiring under. 

I simply fit the shoe neatly 
and firmly to the foot. A, 
A, and B, B, represent side 
toe and heel calkins. Then 
bevel the toe in front as 
shown in diagram. This 
will allow the horse to roll 
over the toe more easily in 
the forward movement. 
Bevel the shoe as shown in 
Fig. 181, on the wall bear- 
ing, for contracted and wired 
in quarters. This style of 

Fig. 184. half bar shoe. '^^^^ ^^'''^^ ^^ ^ ^^PP^''^ *« 

A, A, Side toe calkins. B, B,Side ^""^"^ "^^"^^ ^" restoring the 

heel caikins. foot to its normal condition. 




274 SCIENTIFIC HORSESHOEING. 

Hitching, its Causes and Cure. — Hitching and hopping 
are defects so common that I wish to say a word about them, 
inasmuch as I have been requested to do so; and while I know 
that no two individuals agree upon this important matter, I am 
glad to put forward my theory, if only to draw out others. The 
defect is mostly confined to the hind legs; but there are some 
instances — notably that of the famous trotting mare, Lida Bas- 
sett — of hitching in the front leg. As she was one of the fast- 
est in her day, the example will be a good one. When she was 
up to her speed, the stride of her left front foot was some four 
inches longer than that of her right front foot. It was some 
time before the trainer knew the cause or her hitching. 

When I first began to study up the causes of this defect, I 
assigned it to several, and later experience has borne me out. 
First, the feet may be unbalanced, or improperly weighted in 
front; second, illy made and poorly fitted shoes in front may 
cause the horse to scalp her coronet on the inside pastern ; 
third, drawing too much weight when up to speed may be a 
source of the trouble; fourth, too long drives when out of con- 
dition may cause hitching ; fifth, being overdriven when short 
of work; and sixth, hitching may spring from curb, ring-bone, 
or spavin. 

It may, however, be maintained that a most frequent cause 
of hitching is unbalanced or improperly weighted feet. These 
cause a horse to lose his natural stride. For instance, taking 
ofi" front shoes of fifteen or eighteen ounces, to which weights 
the horse has become accustomed, and substituting shoes of less 
weight, will make a vast difference. But whatever may be the 
cause of hitching behind, it will always be found by measuring 
the stride of the hitching leg and foot, that it is from four to 
seven inches shorter than the other. Curb, ring-bone and 
spavin often cause hitching and hopping in the leg affected with 
any of these disorders. An excellent method of overcoming 
the defect from these sources is to shoe the hitching les: with a 



SPECIFIC AND REMEDIAL SHOi:i.NG. 275 

hind-foot shoe to weigh from five to seven ounces more than 
the other hind-foot shoe. This added weight will carry the 
foot and leg longer in the stride. It will also be found, which- 
ever hind leg hitches, the stride of the opposite front foot will 
be shorter. For instance, if the hitching takes place in the left 
hind leg, from any cause, the front right leg will have a shorter 
stride. By placing upon the right front foot a shoe weighing 
three or four ounces more than the left front foot, the former 
will be lengthened in its stride. 

Having ascertained the uneven gait and taken its measure- 
ment, the next thing is to set about the treatment. I found 
Lida Bassett, for instance, hitching with her right front foot. 
I welded a spur to the toe of the shoe, turned up with the front 
angle of the foot, and slipped over it a small brass weight of 
three ounces. Thereupon her front strides became equal and 
her movement was as smooth and uniform as the pendulum of a 
clock. A great many speed horses act badly when up to speed, 
for the reason that their strides in front are not equal in length 
at each footfall. In such a case, I shoe the front feet with the 
heavier shoe on the hitching foot, the weight determined by the 
circumstances. 

In general, to cure a horse of hitching, the farrier should 
first learn the weights in front and behind the horse is accus- 
tomed to when he trots squarely. !N'ext find out at what gait 
he begins hitching. Notice all the peculiarities and even ques- 
tion the driver. But the most important is to see that the feet 
are properly balanced and under the body. Then, having 
studied the horse and learned all his defects and peculiarities, 
shoe him to correct them all according to the instructions here- 
tofore given. It may become a matter of more or less experi- 
ment, but practical experience and good judgment are the 
handmaids of success in scientific farriery. Cultivate them. 



276 SCIENTIFIC HORSESHOEING. 

Shoeing for Relief and Ease from Ringbone. — For the 
iDenefit of the reader, I insert here a suggestion as to some shoes 
which can be used for relief and ease from ringbone. In each 
case the shoes are to be made to assist him in the work he has 
to perform. The general shoe is the one described upon page 
140, Fig. 35. When the subject is a general business horse, the 
shoe described upon page 213, Fig. 101 ; when speed or road 
liorses are concerned, page 232, Fig. 121. 

If scoop be taken out of shoe on the ground tread, as far 
around as the two front nails at the toe (seo Fig. 121, page 232), 
the jar at each footfall will be lessened around the affected 
parts. An easy method of lessening the concussion at each 
footfall is to make an opening between the shoe and front wall 
of foot large enough to slip in a No. 9 horseshoe nail. This 
relieves the affected parts at each footfall, at the apex of the os 
pedis. 



A TABLEAU OF HORSESHOES. 277 



CHAPTER X. 
A TABLEAU OF HORSESHOES, 

OLD AND NEW STYLES PICTURED AND COMPARED. 

To carry out the subject of this book still further and to 
show at a glance the progress that has been made in the whole 
scheme and staple of horseshoeing within our generation, cover- 
ing a period of thirty-five years, a regular progressive series of 
different designs of shoos is here introduced in order to exhibit 
as clearly as possible the passing stages of advancement in the 
art by the several styles of shoes in use at various times for 
various purposes until they were gradually relegated or su- 
perseded by more modern patterns of ingenious workmanship 
and skill, which accomplish wonders in balancing the action and 
leveling the gait of horses, or are admirably effective in remedy- 
ing or curing many of the faulty movements and morbid affec- 
I ions of the feet and legs. " Scientific horseshoeing," with all that 
the term implies, is thus seen to be the outcome of many previous 
years of experimental tests before it came to " the parting of the 
ways " which led it from speculative regions to the place which 
it now occupies — as an art built on scientific principles. The 
shoes and tools grouped in the cases — Figs. 186 to 190 — formed 
part of my display at the "World's Fair, at Chicago, 1893, and 
were awarded the First Premium, Medals and Diploma. 

In addition to the shoes shown in these cases, a large num- 
ber of still more recent patterns are illustrated in the preceding 
pages of this book — from designs which I have made since the 
close of the World's Fair. 



278 



SCIENTIFIC HORSESHOEING. 




Fig. ISG. Case No. 1. 
Improved Tools for Scientific Horseshoeing. 



FIG. 186. CASE NO. 1. 279 



In tools, as in overy thing else, the best is the cheapest, and this case rep- 
resents the best products of ingenuity and mechanical skill of the various 
articles made to serve the most useful purposes of experts i:i farrierv. There 
are many shoeing smiths who still i)ursue the same routine of shop work that 
their ancestors did of old. No modern tools. No improved methods. And 
considering the improvements made in other pursuits are actually as iiiuc'.i in 
the rut to-day as were the rur;;l blacksmiths of generations ago. AVbilo tliLs 
is BO, it is a noticeable fuct that better facilities fordoing better and quicker 
work results in more trade and more popular satisfaction every time. This 
a.Tords the most conclusive evidence that the best tools are indispensable to 
the enterprising farrier, and this case embraces every thing that properly be- 
longs to this class of goods. The list includes the following articles: 

No. 1. Driving Hammer, weight, ];-! ounces. 

2. Pincers. 

3. Clinch Cutter. 

4. Horse Rasp, size, 14 inches. 

6. Foot Hook. 

7. Rasp, size, Ifi inches. 

8. Spreader, for operating on diseased hoofs. 

9. 10, 11, 12, 44, 45, 46. Farriers Knives of various sizes, No. 11 an 

extra blade without handle, 
lo, 15, 16- Hand Hamuiers of various weiglits. 
17,18. Fire Tongs. 

19, 21. Croasors, light and heavy bitted. 

20, 39. Stamps or Punches. 

22, 23, .24. Plain and Countersunk Pritchells for stamping shoes. 
26. Russell's Foot Adjuster, fitted to a horse's hoof. 

30. Center Punch or Prick for nail piercing. 

31. Three Square Iron or Steel Cutter. 

33. Foot Tester. 

34. Hoof Cutting Nippers. 

35. Nail Clincher. 

47. Russell's Bed Plate for leveling the foot. 

48. Adjustable Compass for measuring height of hoof. 

49. 50. Farrier's Clasps or Pocket Knives. 

51, 53. "Whetstones. 

52. Three Square File for dressing knives. 

54. Froat to rasp teeth. 

55. Sledge, ,Aveight, 7 pounds. 

56. Double Rasp. 

57. Half Round bastard Hot Filing Rasp. 

89. Steel Rule, 6 inches, for measuring hoofs. 

90. Adjustable Calipers to verify measurements around hoof. . 



280 



SCIENTIFIC HOKSESHOEING. 




Fig. 1S7. Case No. 2. 



FIG. 187. CASE NO. 2. 2S1 



No. 1. Hind bar shoe, -worn by trotter " Clementine." 

2. Front four calkin shoe, see book. Fig 89. 

3. Hind four calkin shoe, see book, Fig. 1 12. 

4. Front scooped grab toe siioe. 

5. Front toe weight shoe to balance action, old style, 1862. 

6. Front shoe concaved on inner ri;n. 

7. Shoe concaved on inner quarters to prevent picking stones, oldi 

style, 18G0. 

8. Front winter shoe with sharp toe and heel calkins. 

9. Front rim shoe to prevent knee hitting, see Fig. 82. 

10. Front toe weight shoe, see Fig. 97. 

11. Front toe weight shoe, see Fig. 9i). 

12. Front toe weight shoe to make pacers trot. 

13. Front shoe with toe calk for trotters, oil style. 1848. 

14. Front bar shoe (old style.) 

15. Front concaved shoe for saddle horses. 

16. Front navicular shoe, worn by " Proteine," see Fig. 63. 

17. Hind shoe for curb and sore tendons. 

18. Front scooped toe mud shoe, old style, 1860. 

19. Front rim shoe. 

20. Front heart sunk bar shoe, old style, 1861. 

21. Front round shoe, old style. 

22. Front shoe for fiat feet, see Fig. 35. 

23. Front shoe for draft horse, Fig. 102. 

24. Front scooped toe shoe, see Fig. 89. 

25. Front shoe for ankle and knee hitting, old style. 

26. Hind shoe to lessen stride, old style. 

27. Front scooped toe rolling motion rim shoe. 

28. Hind shoe for draft horse, see Fig. 33. 

29. Front shoe for draught horse, see Fig. 32. 

30. Front concave shoe for saddle horse. 

31. Mule shoe, see Fig. 56. 

32. Hind shoe for ankle hitting, see Fig. 84. 

33. Racing plate, see Fig. 30. 

34. Hind shoe for ankle hitting, old style. 

35. Front shoe for ankle hitting, old style. 

36. Front side weight shoe, old style, 1876. 

37. Front shoe for bar pressure. 

38. Front shoe for enlarging ground tread, old style, 1861.. 

39. Front rim shoe, nails set for low thick hold, 1861. 

40. Hind three quarter shoe for ankle cutting, old style. 

41. Hind shoe to straighten foot under leg. 



282 



SCIENTIFIC HOKSESHOEING. 




Fig. ISS. Case No. 3. 



FIG. 188. CASE NO. 3. 283' 



No. 42. Hind shoe, worn by trotter " Thomas Jefferson." 

43. Front side weight shoe for ankle and knee hitting. 

44. Front scooped toe shoe for stumbling, see Fig. 95. 

45. Hind shoe for quarter grabbing. 

46. Front concaved shoe for trotters, old style. 

47. Front non-paddling shoe, see Fig. 104. 

48. Front shoe beveled from toe to heels, worn by " Thos. Jefferson." 

49. Hind square toe shoe for ankle hitting, old style, byS. T. H., 1873. 

50. Hind shoe for trotters, old style 

51. Tip shoe, old style. 

52. Hind scooped toe shoe, old style, see Fig. 116. 

53. Front shoe for ankle and knee hitting, old style, by S. T. H., 1873.. 

54. Front bar shoe, worn by " Goldsmith Maid," 1871, see Fig. 90. 

55. Front modified " Centennial" shoe, by S. T. H., see Fig. 87. 

56. Front rolling motion shoe, No. 1, see Fig. 93. 

57. Front shoe for forging, etc., see Fig. 91. 

58. Front shoe for knee hitting. 

59. Front raised spring bar shoe, see Fig. 88. 

60. Front " Centennial " shoe, by S. T. H., see Fig. 85. 

61. Front shoe for roadsters. 

62. Front spring heel shoe for contraction. 

63. Hind shoe for knuckling. 

64. Front shoe concaved and thin at heels. 

65. Hind scooped toe shoe. 

66. Front shoe for knee hitting, by S. T. H. 

67. Front shoe modified " Centennial." 

68. Front side weight shoe for knee hitting, see Fig. 100. 

69. Hind shoe for quarter grabbing. 

70. Hind rolling motion shoe, old style. 

71. Front bar shoe grooved for slipping, old style. 

72. Front grooved center shoe, worn by "American Girl," weight,. 

31 ounces, see trotting record, page 118. 

73. Front rim bar shoe, nailed at toe, old style. 

74. Hind concaved shoe, old style. 

75. Front shoe concaved quarters, old style trotters, 1862. 

76. Front shoe concaved, old style. 

77. Plain shoe. 

78. Hind shoe for knuckling, see Fig. 71. 

The center of this case is occupied by a display of medals which I have 
received on similar exhibits of shoes, etc., at various expositions throughout- 
the country. See page vii-x. 
19 



234. 



SCiEATlFlC HOR8ESHOEING. 




Fig. ]89. Case No. 4. 



/ 



FIG. 189. CASE NO. 4. 285 



No. 79. Front concaved rolling motion shoe to change front action. 

80. Front shoe for knee hitting, worn by " Gladiator," 1877. 

81. Front shoe ground tread beveled to increase its surface. 

82. . Front three quarter shoe for bruised heels. 

83. Front shoe gradually thinned from toe to heels. 

84. Hind concaved shoe. 

85. Front shoe fiat toe and heel calkins for trotters. 

86. Same style shoe as No. 85. 

87. Hind shoe inside heel calk for ankle hitting. 

88. Front navicular shoe — A, high center of pad, B, heel calkins. 

89. Front shoe for bruised heels, see Fig. 91. 

90. Front shoe for knee hitting, see Fig. 83. 

91. Front shoe for " pigeon toe," wide web outside. 

92. Front racing plate, aluminum, weight, one-half ounce. 

93. Front hospital shoe, adjustable center plate, for wounds, etc. 

94. Front shoe for knee hitting. 

95. Hind shoe concaved quarters for roadsters. 

96. Front shoe for various purposes, see Fig. 91. 

97. Front shoe with leather pad, four calks, etc., for slipping, etc. 

98. Front shoe rounded ground surface for forging. 

99. Front deep seated concaved shoe for saddle horses. 

100. Front rim shoe to prevent slipping. 

101. Front non-paddling shoe, toe and heel calks, and wide web inside. 

102. Front modified turn-table shoe. 

103. Front shoe for quarter cracks. 

104. Front shoe toe and heel calks inside for ankle cutting. 

105. Front " hospital " shoe for sore tendons, heels 1 inch high, taoer- 
ing to toe. 

106. Pony shoe. 

107. Front shoe toe beveled out and quarters beveled in for stumbling. 

108. Front deep seated rim shoe for slipping. 

109. Hind shoe modified for wheeled feet. 

110. Front three quarter tip for sore heels. 

111. Front light aluminum shoe for track work. 

112. Hind deep concaved shoe. 

113. Front rim shoe to prevent slipping. 



286 



SCIENTIFIC HORSESHOEING. 




Fig. 190. Case No. 5. 



FIG. 190. CASE NO. 5. 28: 



No. 114. Front rim tip, worn by trotting horse " Jack." 

115. Hind rim tip. 

116. Hind shoe for Shetland pony. 

117. Front shoe for Slietland pony. 

118. Front racinsj plate. 

119. Hind racing plate. 

120. Front bar shoe, open space outside, for interfering, etc. (Irish shoe). 

121. Hind scoop toe grab shoe for track work. 

122. Hind skeleton plate for racing. 

123. Front skc'letDU plate for racing. 

124. Hind shoe, elevated heel bar, for curbs and spavins on trotters. 

125. Front heart sunk bar rolling motion shoe. 

126. Hind scooped toe grab sMoe. 

127. Front center bearing slioe, see Fig. 12.3. 

128. Hind " spreading" shoe, see Figs. 132 and 133. 

129. Front rasp cut plain flat shoe, see Fig. 119. 

130. Front deep concaved shoe for saddle horses. 

131. Front improved rolling motion shoe, rim on inner border. 

132. Front scooped toe grab shoe with bar for racers. 

133. Front concaved shoe with thin heels for high heeled horses. 

134. Front toe weight scooped grab toe bar shoe for track use. 
I 135. Front bar shoo, see Fig. 118. 

136. Front shoe beveled on outer and inner rims for speedy cutting, forging, etc. 

137. Hind scoop grab toe bar shoe beveled on inner quarters. 

138. Front scooped ^rab toe bar shoe, see Fig. 122. 

139. Front rolling motion shoe No. 2, see Fig 94. 

140. Front rasp cut plain flat shoe, see Fig. 117. 

141. Front rasp cut bar shoe. 

142. Front plain flat shoe. 

143. Front plain heart sunk bar shoe. 
, 144. Front plain open shoe. 

145. Hind rasp cut shoe, see Fig. 120. 

146. Hind rasp cut grab shoe (modified from the last). 

147. Front shoe square concaved toe flat ground face for knee hitting. 

148. Front shoe light weight for stumbling, see Fig. 95. 

149. Front bar shoe with toe calk, worn by "Kremlin." 

150. Front plain light bar shoe. 

151. Hind bar shoe, long heels, for long striding horses or weak tendons. 

152. Front concaved thin heeled shoe for high heeled horses. 

153. Scooped toe or grab tip. 

154. Hind bar shoe with long outside branch. 

155. Front raised split bar shoe with leather pad, see Fig. 121. 

156. Front shoe deeply concaved for saddle horses. 

157. Hind plain side weight shoe. 

158. Front grab toe bar shoe with side and heel calks, see Fig. 125. 

159. Front heart sunk bar shoe with toe and heel calks. 

160. Front shoe modified " Centennial," see Fig. 86. 

161. Front rope toed shoe with heel calks for ice and mud. 

162. Hind scooped toe grab shoe for trotters. 

163. Front toe weight bar shoe. 

164. Front scooped toe grab shoe, long branch outside, for trotters. 

165. Hind plain light shoe. 

166. Front scooped toe grab shoe beveled in and out for trotters. 

167. Hind shoe, tapered heels to toe, worn by trotter " Harry Wilkes." 

168. Hind scooped toe grab shoe. 

169. Hind shoe for knuckling, see Fig. 71. 

170. Hind scoop grab toe bar shoe, long heel branches, etc., for sore tendons. 




Fig. 191. A CASE OF FINE HORSESHOES.-MADE BY PROF. WM. RUSSELL. 

The above case of horseshoes is said to be the finest in the world. The large shoe in the 
middle of the ease is a medal frame with fourteen medals on the inside. The weight of the large 
shoe is IG}'^ pounds. All of the shoes shown are for speed horses, and represent the mostrecent 
used by me in m v system of balancing the feet so as to insure the greatest speed and endurance 
The fifteen medals (gold, silver and bronze) are all the highest premiums, and represent the 
highest honors obtained, wherever the shoes have been exhibited. 



KUSSELL S FOOT AND HEEL ADJUSTERS. 289 




Fig. 192. Russell's Foot Adjuster. 
Instructions for use given on pages 77 to 81 ; also see Figs. 16 to 20. 




Fig. 193. Russell's Heel Adjuster, for obtaining the Angles op 

THE Heels. 

A, A, Slots in plates for adjustment to i)osition desired. 

B, Thumb screw for setting the plates. 

C, F, Adjustable lover to obtain the angle of heels. 

D, Lower bed-plate, to lay on bottom of the foot across the quar- 
ters, in equalizing the angle on both sides of the heel. 



290 



SCIENTIFIC HORSESHOEING. 





Fig. 195. Russell's Foot 

Testers. 

Explained on page 135. 



Fig. 104. Russell's Hand Vise, for Hot Rasping Shoes. 

A, Set screw to fasten the jaw, B, on shoe. 

C, Bed plate, shaped like a front foot shoe, on which to lay the shoe, to 
tot or cold rasp it on the bevel of the heels and quarters. 

D, Lower projection, to catch in the jaws of' stationary vise. 

E, End of jaw to grip the shoes. Length of vise, 16 inches. 

This tool is indispensable to all shoers who shoe light horses, as by its 
use the thinnest shoes can be filed without springing. 



RECIPES AND INSTRUCTIONS. 291 



CHAPTER XI. 
RECIPES AND INSTRUCTIONS. 

POR TREATING DISEASES OP THE HORSE'S FEET AND 

LEGS. 

It seems suitable and convenient as to the general purpose 
of this book that, after having dwelt somewhat largely upon a 
review of the principal diseases and injuries which impair the 
organic soundness of the horse's foot, and treating in detail the 
efficacy of a safe and scientific mode of shoeing in counteracting 
such evils, I should devote — in a limited way — a few recipes, 
such as I have used myself with the most satisfactory results. 
It is not my intention, however, to advise that the attendance 
of a regular veterinarian be dispensed with when any serious 
form of disease exists which calls for medical treatment beyond 
the reach of the farrier's art. Neither do I desire to appear in 
a false light with respect to the valid claims of professional vet- 
erinary practice. At all times the mechanical work of shoeing 
is combined more or less with the surgical treatment of the foot, 
hence the farrier of to-day must be more than a " blacksmith," 
or a mere worker in iron ; and it is for his guidance that I am 
now writing. Having placed before my readers the undoubted 
utilities of shoeing for remedial purposes, I likewise submit the 
following medicaments as useful applications for any of the 
cases to which they especially refer. Success in the use of these 
preparations, I may add, depends upon a right understanding of 
the nature of the trouble in each instance, and then in the proper 
application of the remedy. 



292 SCIENTIFIC HORSESHOEING. 

No. 1. 
Cleansing the feet. — The importance of cleanliness in 
keeping the feet of horses free from certain disorders of the 
skin and other excretory matters that are causative of eruptions 
can not be overlooked. In prescribing a simple wash for the 
feet, therefore, it is only a step in the way of preventing disorder 
in its functions, to which neglect of such precaution may lead. 
In hot dry weather the extremities of the limbs should be 
thoroughly scoured at least once a day. Use the best castile soap 
with a liberal supply of warm water and make a good, stiff 
lather and apply it with a brush — to rub it in and thus cleanse 
the skin from all impurities. Then rinse off with clear water 
and dry with a cloth. This operation should apply to all parts 
of the ankle and hoof, including the heels, and in this way a 
clear, healthy condition of skin and elastic, tough, glossy wall 
will be insured, if the foot is otherwise healthy. 

No. 2. 

Foot Salve. — Shoemaker's wax, ^ lb.; Beeswax, J lb.; 
Mutton Tallow, for summer use, i lb.; and for winter use, J lb. 
To be melted in an iron pot over a gentle fire, kept constantly 
stirred until the composition is well dissolved and thoroughly 
mixed. 

This preparation is invaluable for many foot ailments when 
used according to directions. 

For Contraction. — After the foot has been prepared and 
the shoe fitted, have the salve well warmed and fill the bottom 
of the foot with it, then cover it with a thin overlay of white 
cotton or clean oakum, and nail on the shoe with a piece of 
leather fitted under the web to cover the bottom of the foot to 
retain the salve in place and protect it from dirt. 

For Coronitis. — Warm the salve as before and thoroughly 
saturate with it several pledgets or thin flat layers of white cot- 
ton and cover the coronary band all around with a thick coating 



RECIPES AND INSTRUCTIONS. 293 

of salve, secured with a compress bandage of linen, laid over it 
to keep it in place, after which rub a warm smoothing iron 
over the surface from toe to heels, repeating this process once 
or twice daily for the space of a week or more, being careful 
not to scorch or burn the bandage in so doing. The application 
of heat will operate as a tonic to stimulate the circulation 
throughout the diseased organ, causing it to absorb the salve, 
which will at once check the ossific tendency and assist the horn 
secreting powers of the coronary cushion. 

For Laminitis and Villitis, or for inflammation and sore- 
ness of the villous tissue of the toe and sole of the foot, follow 
the directions given for treatment and shoeing in Chapter VII, 
covering such diseases. 

For Bruised and Ulcerated Heels. — Have the foot leveled 
and prepared by removing all the hard, dead, portions of the 
horny sole around the afiected part, then apply the salve and 
cotton in and around the sore or tender spot. After the shoe is 
applied, soak the foot in tubs of warm water, as this will act 
favorably in reducing inflammation and removing soreness. 

For Chapped Heels or Dry Skin. — Apply the salve same 
as above, secured with bandage, and repeat the heating process 
with warm iron as recommended for Coronitis and all soreness 
or derangement will quickly disappear. 

For Punctured Wounds. — Whenever the foot is wounded 
by a nail or other sharp body, it will be necessary to immediately 
open up the injured spot by means of a drawing knife and 
remove the edges of the wounded parts as deep as the horny 
tissue extends. The salve is then to be poured into the orifice 
until the cavity is filled — the foot being held up that the salve 
may cool and harden. By having it remain there the stimulus 
which it imparts will soon allay any irritation and bring on a 
healthy growth. 



294 SCIENTIFIC horseshoeIng. 

No. 3. 

Liniment for Chronic and Painful Inflammations of 
Tendons, Coronary Cushion, etc. — Tincture of Aconite Root, 
2 oz.; Spirits of Ammonia, 2 oz.; Tincture of Iodine, 4 oz. 
Mix and shake well before using. 

This remedy is applicable to all cases of soreness or inflam- 
mation in the tendons and coronary structures, also it operates 
favorably on bog spavins, wind galls, and chapped hocks. It 
stimulates the parts affected to healthy action by causing all 
exudations, whether of the bones or soft parts, to be quickly 
re-absorbed and the irritations allayed. In applying, saturate 
and rub the parts affected well once a day, and in severe cases, 
twice a day, morning and evening, continuing the operation 
until recovery takes place. 

No. 4. 

Wash for General Purposes. — The following recipe is a 
mild caustic, and will result in no injury to the foot if used as 
directed : Carbolic Acid, 1 ounce ; Glycerine, 1 ounce ; Distilled 
Water, 6 ounces. Mix thoroughly. 

When used for bruised heels, pare all the dead hard sole 
from around the bruised parts, thinning the insensitive sole un- 
til it will spring under the pressure of the thumb. After having 
done this, saturate white cotton large enough to cover the 
affected parts, lay over the bruise, and allow it to remain for 
fifteen or twenty minutes. Put a few drops of the wash on the 
cotton occasionally, so as to keep it thoroughly saturated. It 
sometimes happens that the horse strikes his opposite ankle or 
shin, cutting it, and quite often proud flesh sets up in the 
wound. If this happens, take white cotton large enough to 
cover the wound, thoroughly saturate with the wash and lay 
over the wound. Bandage the leg to hold the cotton in place, 
and let it remain on the wound for fifteen or twenty minutes. 



RECIPES AND INSTRUCTIONS. 295 

This will remove the proud flesh and stimulate a healthj 
growth. I liave used the above wash and it has always pro- 
duced the best and most satisfactory results. 

No. 5. 

Witch Hazel Wash, for General Purposes, such as 
Sprained Tendons, Sore Loins and Soreness of the Muscles. 
— Witch hazel wash is an old, long-standing remedy, well 
known to horsemen, and has a well-earned reputation as a 
relief for the above-named troubles. I have used it myself with 
the most satisfactory results. Always bear in mind to have the 
foot properly balanced, and a shoe so constructed and fitted that 
when nailed to the foot the horse will stand with his foot and 
leg naturally under the body. In this way the weight of the 
body is equally distributed to all parts of the foot and leg. 



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